US Sees a 17% Drop in New International Students: What It Means for Indian Students in 2025

Indian students have traditionally chosen the United States as their top study abroad destination, but recent data from the IIE Fall Snapshot 2025 shows a worrying change.

New international enrollments fell by 17% this fall, according to a survey of 825 US universities, raising serious concerns for students who intend to continue their education in the United States.

Strong academic programs and Optional Practical Training (OPT) continue to draw top talent from around the world to the US, but the most recent data indicates that visa difficulties and policy uncertainty are having a negative impact, particularly on students from nations like India.

What the Numbers Say: A Mixed Picture

The Fall Snapshot shows:

This variation is indicative of a significant trend:

■ Students still desire a degree from the US, but admission is getting more difficult.

Visa Hurdles Are the Biggest Roadblock

Concerns about visa applications were cited by 96% of institutions reporting declines.

68% mentioned limitations on travel.

During the busiest time of year for F-1 processing, the US State Department suspended new visa interviews in the summer of 2025.

Indian students, who already deal with severe embassy backlogs and more stringent screening, have been directly impacted by this.

Other issues with policy include:

• More stringent social media monitoring
• 19 countries with travel restrictions
• Proposals to limit the duration of student visas
• opposition to OPT on a political level

Families are questioning whether the US is a secure and stable option because of these uncertainties.

OPT: The One Thing Keeping the US Attractive

The US is still attractive despite declining enrollment because of the post-study work program known as Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Important conclusions:

• Without OPT, 92% of schools claim that students would look elsewhere.
• OPT participation increased by 22% the year prior and 21% last year.
• OPT participation among Indian students increased by 47% in 2024–2025.

OPT is still the main factor influencing Indian students' decision to study in the US, particularly in STEM fields where work authorization lasts up to three years.

However, OPT is under pressure due to politics:

• OPT should be eliminated, according to a senior senator.
• Republican lawmakers have introduced several bills to limit or discontinue the program.

Indian enrollment in the US may drastically drop in the upcoming years if OPT is altered.

Institutions Are Trying to Adapt

With uncertainty rising, many universities are offering safeguards:

• Deferrals to Spring 2026 are offered by 72%.
• Deferrals to Fall 2026 are offered by 56%.

Recruiting students who are already in the US is receiving more attention.

Increased interaction between current international undergraduates and US high schools

In particular, recruitment efforts are robust in:

• South Korea, Brazil, Vietnam, and India (UG focus)
• Bangladesh, China, Vietnam, and India (PG focus)

India is undoubtedly still a top priority, but hiring is challenging due to policy issues.

Why Did This Drop Happen? The Bigger Picture

The post-pandemic boom was fueled by pent-up demand, according to Mirka Martel, head of research at IIE.

"Record-high but temporary" growth was observed.

Enrollment is now stabilizing at reasonable levels.

But the political climate has put more strain on new enrollments, particularly with regard to visa delays.

• Suspensions of interviews
• Discussions about anti-immigration policies

Although the NAFSA-predicted 30–40% crash did not occur, the 17% decline shows that students are now more cautious.

What Indian Students Should Keep in Mind

This has the following implications for Indian candidates:

• If OPT continues, the US is still strong. OPT plus STEM programs equals fantastic opportunities.
• However, pay attention to political developments.
• Timelines for visas can be erratic.
• Students should be flexible and apply as soon as possible.
• Be ready for postponements or delays.
• Enrollment in PG (Master's) programs is rapidly declining.
• Demand is still high, but obtaining a visa is more difficult.
• Enrollment in UG is more consistent.
• It may be easier for families seeking a long-term education in the United States.
• Think about backup plans.
• For Indian students, Canada, Ireland, the UK, Australia, and Germany are emerging as viable options.

Conclusion: The US is Still Attractive But Not as Easy as Before

Through OPT, the US continues to provide unparalleled employment opportunities, high ROI, and world-class quality.

However, the 17% decline in new enrollments indicates a changing environment influenced by:

• Limitations on visas
• Volatility in policy
• A higher level of screening
• Increasing international rivalry

The US is still a worthwhile option for Indian students, but the route is no longer simple.

It is now more crucial than ever to plan ahead, apply early, and travel to several locations.