The United States could lose up to 110,000 international students in the 2026-27 academic year as visa delays, travel restrictions, and immigration policy uncertainty weigh on foreign enrollment. According to a new analysis by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and Studyportals and JB International, overall international enrollment in the US is projected to fall by 9.5% in fall 2026, based on institutional responses to IIE’s Spring 2026 Snapshot on International Educational Exchange.

The United States could lose up to 110,000 international students in the 2026-27 academic year as visa delays, travel restrictions, and immigration policy uncertainty weigh on foreign enrollment.

According to a new analysis by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and Studyportals and JB International, overall international enrollment in the US is projected to fall by 9.5% in fall 2026, based on institutional responses to IIE’s Spring 2026 Snapshot on International Educational Exchange.

The decline could cost the US economy as much as $3.4 billion in lost spending and affect around 39,000 jobs.

Signs of weaker demand are already visible. The international pool of doctoral candidates has fallen by 21% for 2026-27, contributing to a 17% drop in international PhD admissions. International applications submitted through the Common App are also down 9% for the coming academic year.

Nearly two-thirds of institutions surveyed by IIE expect their international enrollment to decline in 2026-27.

Visa-related challenges are adding to the pressure. An expanded US travel ban covering citizens of 39 countries has been in effect since January 1, 2026.

Student visa processing has not been suspended, but the US State Department prioritized applications from FIFA World Cup ticket holders during the spring and summer period, when student applicants have traditionally received priority.

The analysis also points to significant visa processing delays and limited interview availability in India, China, and Europe.

Policy changes are creating further uncertainty. The longstanding Duration of Status system is being replaced with a fixed Admit-Until-Date (AUD), requiring students who need more time to complete their studies to apply for an extension with US immigration authorities.

NAFSA said the change could create significant uncertainty, particularly for students considering longer degree programs. Concerns have also grown over possible changes to the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international graduates to gain work experience in the US.

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