Washington. Amidst strict immigration policies, the number of Indian students seeking admission to US colleges in 2025-26 has declined by 15 percent as compared to the previous year. This information has been given in the report of a non-profit organization. According to the report released by 'Common App' representing more than a thousand educational institutions, the total number of applications for admission to undergraduate courses in the upcoming academic session 2026-27 has increased, but the number of international applicants has declined by 10 percent till March 1, which is the biggest decline till date.
This reason came to light for decline in admissions
The report said that there has been a 15 percent decline in the number of students applying from India. The largest number of international students coming to study in America are from India. Earlier, a report by an organization of academics had said that due to stringent visa rules and policy uncertainty, there is a possibility of a decline of about 1.1 lakh in the enrollment of international students in American colleges and universities in the upcoming session of 2026.
Why is this happening ?
According to the report of 'NAFSA' (Association of International Educators) and research organization 'JB International', the number of international students in the academic session of 2025-26 was estimated at 11.69 lakh. This year this number is expected to reduce to 10.57 lakh. More than 3.63 lakh students from India were enrolled in various courses in the US in the academic session 2024-25.
According to the report, international students contributed US$41.77 billion to the US local economy in the 2025-26 academic session, while this contribution is expected to decline to $38.37 billion in 2026-27. The US government notified new rules in July. Under these, the traditionally fixed 'stay period' for student and 'visitor' visas was abolished and a maximum period of four years was set.
Why are Indian students not going to America?
This period usually corresponds to the normal duration of an academic course. Additionally, the US is also considering imposing a fee of US$100,000 on foreign students who wish to avail the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program to work in the US after completing their graduation.
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