Indian Students Seeking US UG Admission Drop 15% Amid Visa Policy Changes

The number of Indian students seeking undergraduate admission to US colleges for the 2025-26 academic year declined by 15% compared to the previous year, according to an End-of-Season report released on August 20 by the non-profit Common App. This significant drop comes amidst tightening immigration policies and stricter visa rules implemented by the United States government.

This 15% decrease in applicants from India, historically the largest source of international students for the US, marks the steepest decline on record for international applicants through the Common App platform. The trend signals a potential shift in international student mobility and has considerable implications for both Indian students aspiring for US education and the US economy, which benefits significantly from international student contributions.

Us Undergraduate Admissions 2025-26: Key Declines and Policy Shifts

The Common App, representing over 1,100 institutions, reported that international applicants through March 1 fell by 10%, the steepest decline ever recorded. This overall international dip was significantly influenced by an 11% decline in applications from Asia, the largest region for international applicant volume. The Common App report specifically highlighted that the 15% drop in applicants from India, which typically holds the second-most international applicants on the platform behind China, was a primary driver of this regional decline.

This downturn follows a period where over 3.63 lakh Indian students were enrolled in various courses across the U.S. during the 2024-25 academic year. India and China together accounted for 53% of all foreign students in the US in 2024-25. However, the landscape is changing, with US immigration authorities issuing only 22,149 student visas to Indians in 2025, a stark contrast to the 58,694 visas issued in 2024, representing a decline of over 60%.

Impact on Us Economy and International Student Registrations

The decline in international student enrollment is projected to have a tangible economic impact on the United States. International students contributed an estimated $41.77 billion to the local economy in Fall 2025-26. However, this contribution is projected to decrease to $38.37 billion in 2026-27, reflecting the anticipated drop in student numbers.

A report by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and research firm JB International estimated international student registrations in Fall 2025-26 at 11.69 lakh. This figure is estimated to decline further to 10.57 lakh in Fall 2026, indicating a sustained downward trend in international student presence in the US.

New Visa Rules and Potential Fees Affecting Indian Students

The US government announced new rules in July, eliminating the traditional ‘duration of status’ for student and visitor visas, capping stays at four years. This policy change introduces greater uncertainty for international students, including those from India, who previously benefited from more flexible stay durations.

Adding to the concerns, the US is also considering implementing a substantial $100,000 fee on foreign students who wish to utilise the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The OPT program is a crucial pathway for many international graduates to gain work experience in the US after completing their studies, and such a high fee could act as a significant deterrent for Indian students considering higher education in the US.

Expert Commentary on the Decline

Amid the tightening of immigration policies, the number of Indian students seeking admission to U.S. colleges declined by 15% in 2025-26 over the previous year, if you look at a report,” stated The Hindu, highlighting the direct link between policy changes and student application trends. NDTV further corroborated this, noting, “The report recorded a 15 per cent decrease in applicants from India — the top source for international students in the US.

The New Indian Express quoted the Common App, which observed, “The decline in international applications has intensified, falling from last season, making the biggest decline in a decade.” The Common App further elaborated, “This decline was driven by a 15% drop in applicants from India, which has historically had the second-most international applicants on the platform of any country behind China.” These statements underscore the gravity of the situation and the specific impact on Indian student mobility.

International Student Data Overview

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

View all posts →