Decline in Indian Student Applications to US Colleges Amid Immigration Changes

New Delhi, India Aug 25, 2026 ALN: Amid the tightening of immigration policies, the number of Indian students seeking admission to US colleges declined by 15 percent in 2025-26 over the previous year. This notable decrease is indicative of shifting trends in international education, particularly as the United States has historically been a favored destination for students from India seeking higher education.

A report, representing over 1,100 institutions, released by the Common App, shows that although application volume for undergraduate admission in the upcoming 2026-27 academic year rose overall, the number of international applicants through March 1 fell by 10%, marking the steepest decline on record. This decline is particularly concerning given that India has been the largest source of international students in the US, with over 363,000 students enrolled for various courses in the 2024-25 academic year.

The report highlights that international students contributed a significant USD 41.77 billion to the local economy in the Fall 2025-26. However, projections suggest that this figure will decrease to USD 38.37 billion in 2026-27, reflecting the anticipated drop in international student enrollment. The economic contributions of international students are critical, as they not only pay tuition fees but also spend money on housing, food, and other living expenses, which supports local economies and creates jobs.

Earlier, a report by an organization of educators indicated that stricter visa rules and uncertain policy are expected to lead to up to 110,000 fewer international student registrations at US colleges and universities in Fall 2026. This forecast underscores the growing concerns among prospective international students regarding the stability and accessibility of the US education system.

According to a report by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and research firm JB International, international student registrations in Fall 2025-26 were estimated at 1.169 million, down to 1.057 million for the upcoming academic year. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, rising tuition costs, and increased competition from other countries that are also vying for international students.

In July, the US government announced new rules eliminating the traditional "duration of status" for student and visitor visas, capping stays at four years, which is the usual duration of an academic course. This policy change has raised concerns among students and educational institutions alike, as it limits the flexibility that many international students previously enjoyed while pursuing their degrees. The cap on visa duration may deter prospective students who are uncertain about their ability to complete their studies within the allotted time frame.

Moreover, the US is also considering a USD 100,000 fee on foreign students who wish to use the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program to work in the US after their graduation. The OPT program has been a critical pathway for international students to gain work experience in the US job market, allowing them to transition from academic life to professional employment. By imposing such a fee, the US government may further disincentivize international students from applying to US institutions, as the financial burden could be a significant deterrent.

The OPT program allows foreign nationals who enter the United States on a student visa to work in the US for 12 months, or in some cases 24 months, depending on their field of study. This program is particularly popular among STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates, who often seek employment with US companies that require specialized skills. Additionally, the OPT program provides a pathway for students to transition to an H-1B visa, which is sponsored by employers and allows for longer-term employment in the US.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies, in particular, depend heavily on this visa to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. The tightening of immigration policies surrounding H-1B visas and the potential increase in fees could have significant implications for the tech industry, which relies on a steady influx of skilled labor to maintain its competitiveness.

In summary, the decline in Indian student applications reflects broader challenges in the international education landscape, influenced by changing immigration policies and economic factors. As the US grapples with the implications of these policy changes, it remains to be seen how they will affect the attractiveness of American colleges and universities to international students. The ramifications of this trend could extend beyond individual students and institutions, potentially impacting the US economy and its position as a global leader in higher education.