US institutions bracing for a challenging enrolment outlook for 2025/26

By Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International | IIT Delhi Alumni | 17+ Years Experience | 50,000+ Students Placed
Published: January 3, 2025 | 12 min read | ✓ Verified Expert

Introduction

The number of foreign students at American universities is changing in ways we haven’t seen for decades. For the academic year 2025-26, the United States is facing a difficult enrollment situation: new regulations, visa uncertainties and increasing competition from abroad. For Indian students, this means that there’s greater doubt about the best way to get higher education.

The number of foreign students enrolled in American universities has always been a barometer of the country’s prestige and educational leadership. But now. With the stricter visa regulations, the long visa delays and the surge – hmm, how do I put this – of other study destinations, the traditional route is under pressure. The Institute of International Education (IIE) and other international education bodies are sounding the alarm and pointing to the urgent need for adaptation and support.

This comprehensive guide is to help the Indian student understand the latest trends, policy changes and prospects for studying in the USA. Then we’ll explore how US institutions are responding. Now that I mention it, what the figures actually say, and how Gateway International’s seventeen years of experience can help you navigate the 2025-26 application cycle with confidence.

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US International Student Enrolment Trends for 2025/26

The figures tell of both endurance and risk. After the pandemic, foreign students in the United States recovered. In 2023-24, the Indians surpassed the Chinese as the largest international student group. But as we approach the year 2026, the rate of growth is slowing, and the outlook is more uncertain than ever.

This is what we’ve been looking for: after a decade of steady growth, the latest data shows that international student enrollments in the United States dropped to just 3% in 2024-25, the lowest level in ten years. Indian students enrolled in bachelor programs even declined by five Indian students. Actually, you know what? Who now account for more than one-third of all international students. Optimism of earlier years is giving way to caution, and the forecast is that in 2025-26 there might be a 7 to 11 percent drop in the number of international students.

• In the school year 2023-2024, Indians numbered more than 331,000, a new record.
• Growth was especially strong in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math and.
• Surveys of American universities show that 35 percent of them expect a decline in foreign enrollments for the year 2025-26, double the percentage that predicted last year’s decline.
• Among the most pressing problems for students and institutions are long visa delays and policy uncertainty.

The thing is that while America is still – hmm, how do I put this – a top destination, the road isn’t as straight. Students and families must now carefully weigh up the risks and benefits, especially as other countries intensify their recruiting.

At the moment, the whole of the US landscape of international student recruitment is at a The coming few years will show whether the United States can maintain its leadership or whether it must cede ground to its rivals.

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Key Challenges Facing US Institutions

Let’s face it. In 2026/27, the United States is going to face a perfect storm of challenges for international student enrollment. The combined effects of visa delays, restrictive emigration policy, international competition and financial risks, make this one of the most uncertain business cycles in recent memory.

Administrative and visa restrictions have become particularly acute. In the middle of the year 2025, the temporary suspension of visa interview appointments, combined with the new social media vetting, caused an expected decline of 15 percent in international enrollment, reversing the recent growth. This isn’t just a bureaucratic problem; it’s a threat to the university budget and the local economy.

• Reports from 69 percent of the institutions indicate growing concerns about difficulties at the American ports of entry.
• The most common sources of worry for these students are: • The uncertainty of the status of their visas, with 68.
• Other countries are now competing with us in this way, with more favorable conditions for student visas and with more attractive opportunities for employment after graduation.
• Moody’s and other financial experts warn that a 15% drop in the number of foreign students would reduce a university’s EBIDA to a negative figure.

The catch is that now, in addition to rethinking their recruitment strategies and their digital presence, US universities must also advocate for faster visa processing and clearer policies on granting green cards. Without these changes, the United I mean, States may lose its lead in the international education market.

Shraddha Cheeta

“I don’t even know where to begin because no words can truly express how thankful I am to Simran ma’am and Gateway International. From the very first step to the final outcome receiving my France student visa she has been nothing short of a blessing in my life. She patiently answered every question, no matter how big or small, and guided me through each step document preparations, appointment bookings, everything. Her knowledge, support, and constant encouragement gave me strength when I was most unsure. She treated my journey like her own. And that kind of genuine support is rare. Gateway International is lucky to have someone like her and I feel even luckier to have been guided by her.”

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Policy Shifts and Visa Changes Impacting 2025/26 Enrolment

Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room: policy changes and visa restrictions are at the heart of the challenge to US international student enrollment in 2025-26. Several reports have been received from major countries of origin. Including India, of lengthy delays in the availability of visa application In June of that year a suspension of visa interviews created a large backlog, and F-1 visas dropped by 12% year-to-year in the first quarter and by 22% in May compared to May of the previous year.

A tightening of the restrictions on travel and an increase in the cost of work permits have made it difficult for students to maintain their status. A presidential order of June 2025 placed new restrictions on the travel of 19 countries and allowed for the possibility of adding 36 more. These changes have created a climate of uncertainty that has led many students to seek other ways of life.

• The number of applicants at visa interviews has fallen by up to 90 percent compared with.
• Verification of applicants: slower examination, more denials, more delays.
• New travel ban: 19 countries now restricted, more possible.
• I-765 – Increased Fees for Work Authorization.
• The increased risk of visa revocation – the growing anxiety among students about maintaining their status – correction: and securing employment.

These changes are more important for Indian students than ever before. Early application, careful documentation and professional advice are now essential for a successful study tour to the United States.

The Role of IIE and International Educators

So what’s the role of the Institute for International Education and of international educators in all this? They’re the backbone of the sector’s response to these challenges. In the United States, the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors and Snapshot reports are the gold standards for monitoring enrolment trends, visa issues, and demographic shifts. Speaking of which, then, with its data and its analyses, it helps the universities, the public and the policy makers to understand what’s.

International educators use IIE data to adapt their recruitment strategies, diversify their source countries, and – correction: increase support to current students. With an expected fall of 7 to 11 percent in enrollments in 2025-26, educators are focusing on career paths, digital outreach, and international links. Students are also campaigning for a friendly policy towards them, and for the awareness of the risks of policy uncertainty.

• The IIE provides data and analysis for the industry.
• International educators, guided by insights from IIE, are adapting their recruiting and supporting strategies.
• Planning at national and institutional levels is guided by the IIE’s data.
• By its research and advocacy, IIE shapes the conversations that take place.

At the end of the day, IIE and international educators are the sector’s early warning system and its strategic compass, helping American institutions respond to a changing world.

Akshit Virdi

“Hey, Hope you all are doing great, I am writing this review based on my application process. My name is Akshit Virdi, and I’m going to pursue Bachelor’s of engineering in Civil Engineering at University of Portsmouth. I’m extremely grateful to Gateway International and especially Prateek Panchal sir, he helped me a-lot and always support throughout my admissions and my application process. Prateek Panchal Sir built a trust as well that gateway international is not a fraud consultancy because I live in delhi and Gateway international is located in Udaipur, so it is hard to trust but there faculty is very genuine and supportive and I finally got my UK Visa with the help of:-1. Prateek Panchal – My Consultant, and whenever I call Prateek sir he picked my call even I call in late night so prateek sir is very genuine person and from the bottom of my heart, I really say Thankyou so much sir because you are a real person and I never forget you sir Thankyou once again.2. Neelam Jain – She is very kind and with the help of their perfect guidance, I cracked my CAS interview, without her I cannot cracked this interview, Thank you so much Neelam Ma’am I appreciate your efforts deeply and will always be grateful.3. Nikhilesh Soni – He helped me out in my CAS process and eVISA. Thank you Nikhilesh sir for my CAS process and appreciate your support.4. Deepti Singh Chittora – She helped me for my UKVI Visa process and Deepti Ma’am is so experienced and I got my Uk Visa in just 4 days so, thank you so much deepti mam. Overall, my experience with Gateway International is too good and they supported me at every step. Moreover, they didn’t charge me anything for my whole process, which made the entire process even more majestic. I highly recommend all my friends and colleagues to get their Visa from Gateway International. Best regards Akshit Virdi”

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Prospects for Indian Students: 2025/26 Outlook

The United States is still the most sought-after destination for Indian students. But the path to get there’s cluttered with obstacles. Look, demand for US universities is still high, especially for STEM and business programs, but visa restrictions, higher fees and processing delays make the journey more complex.

And yet the Indian applications have risen by a staggering 70 per cent this year, while the overall student numbers are growing by an average of 20 per cent. However. Experts warn that a lull or a drop in the 2025-26 admissions cycle may be expected as students take into account the uncertainty posed by the government’s new policy.

• Higher tuition fees and stricter visa restrictions are leading to uncertainty.
• The visa interview ban and the new visa integrity fee are both costly and complicated.
• Indian students still concentrate on the science fields. But after graduation, the job opportunities and the opportunities for migration are less predictable.
• Careful planning, early application, and the search for scholarships or a profession are more important than ever.

If you’re an Indian student planning to study in the USA in the academic year 2025-26, start your research early. Keep an eye out for the latest policy changes and seek the help of an expert like Gateway International for a smoother journey.

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Financial Implications for US Institutions

Let’s be honest: the financial stakes for American institutions are enormous. A drop of 15 percent in enrollment in foreign universities would cost the US $ 7 billion in revenue and more than 60,000 jobs. Moody’s warns that the profit margins of some universities could turn negative, especially those already under financial pressure.

This financial pressure leads the American colleges and universities to rethink their recruitment strategies, reinvest in their digital presence, and offer more scholarships and support services. But in reality, without a steady supply of foreign students, many universities face difficult choices in the next few years.

• Depending on international students is of crucial importance to many American universities.
• The financial risks are increased by the declining domestic enrollments and the reduction in student loans.
• Universities are under pressure to diversify their income sources and adapt to the increasingly competitive global environment.

For Indian students, this could mean more scholarship opportunities and more support in – I mean, the form of targeted scholarships. But it will also mean more competition for the coveted places at.

Rahul Jain

“Thank you Gateway International for your distinguished and outstanding service! I wanted to express my deepest gratitude towards prominent service and support I have received from Gateway International. I have received exceptional support throughout my entire journey of getting Visa. This roller coaster journey would not had been easier without my counselor Richa Ma’am. She guided and helped me through all the challenges, ups and downs during my entire journey of application process, documentation, bank formalities till visa process, she looked out on all the information and details closely so that there is no margin for error is left, So Special Thanks to you Richa ma’am for your immense support! I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Arpita ma’am. Your correct and accurate guidance helped me through my CAS process flawlessly. Thank you again for your remarkable support in getting my CAS and related process. Thank you Sonali Ma’am for helping me in my accommodation process. Finally I would like to say thanks to Deepti ma’am for getting my VISA process done way too smoothly. Thank you for guiding and supporting me through entire VISA process. Thank You Gateway International Team & Staff! It is truly astonishing to know that all the Hard work and Effort you put behind every student for achieving their dream and this entire process is free of charge with no hidden charges as well that really gives student a breath of relief and sense of happiness.”

Global Competition and Alternative Destinations

Here’s the thing. The U. S. A. Is no longer the only game in town. Canada, the UK, Australia, I mean, Germany and even China are aggressively recruiting international students, and offer them easier visa procedures, lower tuition and more attractive job opportunities after graduation. For Indian students, this means more choices and more leverage.

For example, Canada and the United Kingdom have capped their enrollments due to the limitations of their capacity, but they’re still seen as more welcoming and stable than the United States. With its work visa, Australia is attracting students away from the more traditional US routes. Then there are the low tuition fees in Germany.

• Competition for talent is increasing, and many more countries are competing for the best of the.
• The alternative, more open, roads offer a more predictable policy.
• India’s students are increasingly looking at Canada, the UK, Australia and Germany as viable alternatives.

If you’ve to choose between various countries, it’s best to look outside the United States to see what other countries can offer you – especially if you’re particularly sensitive to the risk of political.

Application Process and Preparation for Indian Students

Well then, let’s say you’re an Indian student and in 2025 you’re hoping to be accepted as an international student at a U. S. It’s more difficult and competitive than ever, but with good preparation you can still realize your dream.

• Start your research and your application at least a year in advance.
• Pay attention to the changing visa requirements and deadlines.
• Prepare all documentation thoroughly, including transcripts, exam scores, and financial proof.
• If you find direct admission challenging, consider alternative paths such as community colleges or transfer programs.
• Consult professional guidance for SOPs, interviews and visa applications.

Gateway International with its 17+ years of experience and 50,000+ successful placements, is with you on this journey. From the evaluation of the profile to the visa support, the team will accompany you through every step of the process.

Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

Let’s face it, studying in the United States is a major investment, with tuition ranging from $20,000 to $60,000 per year. But the good news is that scholarships, grants, assistantships, and part-time work help cover these costs. Many institutions in the United States give special merit and need-based scholarships to international students, including Indians.

• Early in the day, it’s important to research university-specific scholarships.
• Consider applying for assistantships, which may pay the fees and give you a a stipend.
• Study the educational loan policies of Indian banks and the financial institutions of other.
• Part-time employment on campus (up to twenty hours per week during term-time) is available.

Gateway International is a partner of a number of leading universities and financial institutions. Through these, students have access to scholarships and to learn more about funding, go to:Gateway EduConnect.

Support Services and Adaptation Strategies

Honestly, the most difficult thing about international students enrolling in the United States in the year 2025-26 isn’t just getting in, it’s getting the best institutions, from orientation to counselling, to help international students settle in.

• Look for universities that have a good international student office and a peer mentor programme.
• Take advantage of career services, career days, internships I mean, and job opportunities.
• Engage with the Indian student associations and cultural groups to build community support.
• Then you can keep up with changes to the law, and you can get help with any difficulties you’ve with your visa.

Gateway International’s full-service support covers everything from pre-departure briefings to post-arrival support, to ensure you’re ready for the new job from day one.

Conclusion

To sum up, the American foreign students of the year 2025-6 are at a crossroads. Although the policies have changed and the visa regulations have been tightened, the US still offers a prestigious career to those who have good planning skills. It’s important to be informed, start early, and use expert help to get through the visa application process.

Gateway’s 17 years of experience, leadership by IITians, and its comprehensive package of support make it the trusted partner for Indian students wishing to study in the United States. Speaking of which, whether you’re looking for the latest news. Scholarship opportunities, or a more personal approach, we’re here to help you succeed in the 2025/26 application cycle and beyond.