15% Decline In Indian Students Seeking Undergraduate Courses In US: Report
A new report indicates a 15% decline in Indian students applying for undergraduate programs in the US for the 2026-27 academic year. This drop is attributed to stricter immigration policies, visa uncertainties, and new financial requirements for international students.
Why it matters
The decline in international student enrollment significantly impacts the US higher education sector's revenue and the broader economy.
Amid tightening of immigration policies, the number of Indian students seeking admission in US colleges witnessed a 15 per cent decline in 2025-26 over the previous year, a report by a non-profit organisation representing over 1,100 institutions said.A report released by the Common App shows that although application volume for undergraduate admission in the upcoming 2026-27 academic year rose overall, the number of international applicants through March 1 fell 10 per cent, the steepest decline on record.The report recorded a 15 per cent decrease in applicants from India -- the top source for international students in the US.Earlier, a report by an organisation of educators had said that stricter visa rules and uncertain policy are expected to lead to up to 1.1 lakh fewer registrations of international students in US colleges and universities in Fall 2026.According to the report by NAFSA and research firm JB International, the registration of…
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