In recent years, quite a few students from other countries have come to the U.S. to study. Last year, there were over a million international students here in America. But might international student enrollment trends soon be changing? The initial findings from a recent survey raise some questions on this front.
The survey polled 250 schools in the U.S. about international student applications. A fair number of the surveyed institutions said that they are seeing a decrease in such applications. Specifically, almost 40 percent of the schools reported this. This exceeded the percentage of institutions that reported seeing an increase in such applications (35 percent).
Now, these findings are just a snapshot of application levels, and there are some significant limitations to them. So, they are not a guarantee that there will be a big shift in international student enrollment. However, they do at least raise some discussion points when it comes to the current state of international student interest in studying in the United States.
What do you think will happen with international student enrollment in the U.S. in the upcoming years?
Source
U.S. News & World Report, “Survey Finds College Applications from International Students Down,” Lauren Camera, March 13, 2017
Why Are International Student Applications Declining?
Several factors are shaping the current landscape:
- Visa Challenges: Stricter F-1 visa approvals, delays in DS-160 processing, and the impact of past U.S. immigration policies.
- Geopolitical Tensions: Trade disputes and diplomatic relations with countries like China, India, and Brazil.
- Rising Costs: Higher tuition fees and limited scholarships or financial aid for international students.
- Safety Concerns: Perceptions of gun violence and xenophobia in the U.S.
- Post-Pandemic Disruptions: Backlogs in visa issuance, changing SEVIS rules, and adjustments to hybrid/remote learning.
For example, a Chinese student applying for an F-1 visa in California might face extended wait times due to high demand at U.S. embassies, while an Indian graduate may struggle with OPT approvals in STEM fields.
U.S. Visa Categories for International Students: Explained
Common Visas:
- F-1 Visa: For academic students (universities, high schools, language programs).
- J-1 Visa: For exchange visitors (researchers, scholars, interns).
- M-1 Visa: For vocational and technical students.
Key Legal Terms:
- DS-160: Online nonimmigrant visa application form.
- I-20 Form: Certificate of eligibility issued by SEVP-certified schools.
- SEVIS: U.S. tracking system for foreign students.
- I-94: Arrival/departure record issued upon entry.
- DSO (Designated School Official): School staff responsible for advising F-1 students.
- USCIS: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services processes benefits like OPT and status changes.
Legal Challenges Faced by International Students
International students must navigate:
- F-1 Visa Denials: Often due to perceived “immigrant intent” or lack of financial support.
- Maintaining Status: Risk of violations from dropping below full-time enrollment, working without authorization, or not updating address changes.
- Working on an F-1 Visa: Understanding CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training) requirements.
- Visa Reinstatement: Filing Form I-539 for status restoration after an unintentional lapse.
- Post-Graduation Pathways: Applying for H-1B, green cards, or STEM OPT extensions.
Need help with F-1 status issues? Contact Hussain & Gutierrez for legal guidance.
California: A Top Destination for International Students
California hosts over 150,000 international students, making it the top U.S. state for foreign enrollment. Institutions like USC, UCLA, and Stanford attract students globally.
California’s diverse communities, strong academic programs, and proximity to major consulates make it a hub, but also a hotspot for visa backlog challenges, particularly in STEM fields and OPT approvals.
Financial and Emotional Challenges for International Students
Beyond legal hurdles, students face:
- Tuition & Fees: Often 2-3x higher for international students compared to in-state residents.
- Limited Scholarships: Few merit or need-based options for non-citizens.
- Mental Health Stress: Culture shock, academic pressure, and homesickness are common.
- Family Separation: Long visa wait times and denials can prevent family visits.
The Economic Impact of International Students
International students contribute over $33 billion annually to the U.S. economy. They fuel research, support jobs, and foster innovation in STEM, business, and healthcare. A decline in enrollment could hurt universities’ budgets, reduce global talent pipelines, and weaken the U.S.’s competitive edge.
FAQs: Common Questions from International Students
How do I apply for an F-1 visa to study in the U.S.?
Get accepted by a SEVP-certified school, receive an I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, complete the DS-160, and attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
What happens if my F-1 visa is denied?
You can reapply after addressing the denial reasons (e.g., stronger financial evidence or ties to your home country).
Can I work on an F-1 visa in the U.S.?
Yes, under CPT, OPT, or on-campus jobs. Unauthorized work can result in deportation.
What is the SEVIS system?
SEVIS tracks international students’ status and compliance. Schools issue I-20s, and DHS monitors student records.
How can an immigration attorney help?
Attorneys guide students on visa applications, status reinstatement, OPT/CPT compliance, and post-graduation legal options.
Need Help with Your Student Visa?
At Hussain & Gutierrez, we help international students navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. Whether you’re applying for an F-1 visa, facing a status issue, or exploring post-graduation options, we’re here to support your goals.
Contact us for a free consultation: Hussain & Gutierrez Immigration Attorneys
