US: Student visa issuances fell by -36% in summer 2025; OPT uncertainty among factors affecting international student demand

The United States issued 36% fewer student visas in summer 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to government data. The decline marks a significant reversal after years of post-pandemic recovery in international student enrollment.

Immigration analysts attribute the drop partly to uncertainty surrounding Optional Practical Training (OPT), a program that allows foreign graduates to work in the U.S. for up to three years after completing their studies. Proposed restrictions and legal challenges have created confusion among prospective students and their families.

Other factors include rising tuition costs, stronger competition from Canada, Australia, and the UK, and concerns about visa processing delays. The decline was most pronounced for students from India and China, the two largest sources of international students in the U.S.

Universities have reported lower application numbers for the upcoming academic year, with some institutions scaling back recruitment efforts. The Biden administration has not announced any policy changes to address the visa drop, though officials say they are monitoring the situation.