Indian student applications to US colleges drop 15%: Report
A recent report by Common App indicates a 15% decrease in Indian student applications to US colleges and universities during the 2025-26 academic year, compared to the previous year. This decline, despite an overall increase in undergraduate applications for the 2026-27 academic year, reflects the impact of tightening US immigration and visa policies under the Trump administration.
Indian students, who constitute the largest source of international applicants in the US, saw their applications drop significantly at 15%. The trend has raised concerns about a potential decrease in international student enrollment, with estimates suggesting a loss of up to 1.1 lakh registrations in Fall 2026. The drop in Indian applications could have substantial economic implications as well, with international students contributing $41.77 billion to the US economy in Fall 2025-26, potentially declining to $38.37 billion in 2026-27.
The uncertainty surrounding new visa rules, such as the end of the "duration of status" system for student and visitor visas and the proposed $100,000 fee for Optional Practical Training, has further exacerbated the situation.
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