US universities flag fall in international student applications, cite visa uncertainty: Survey

A recent survey by the American Council on Education (ACE) has revealed a decline in international student applications at US colleges and universities for the 2026 academic year, with visa delays, denials, and uncertainty around immigration policies cited as major concerns. The Pulse Point Survey, conducted among college and university presidents in Fall 2026, found that institutions are increasingly worried about the impact of changing federal immigration rules on international enrolment, a key source of campus diversity and revenue.

The survey highlights the challenges US universities are facing in attracting students from major sending countries, such as India and China, due to geopolitical tensions, visa processing delays, and policy uncertainty. In addition to visa-related issues, many university leaders reported concerns over long-term institutional sustainability, demographic changes leading to fewer domestic students, rising operational costs, and increasing competition for enrolments.

The ACE noted that federal policy decisions, particularly those related to immigration, research funding, and financial aid, continue to have a direct impact on higher education institutions.

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