The United States is facing a significant decrease in the number of Indian students arriving for the upcoming academic year, with reports indicating a potential drop of 70-80%. This decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including stricter visa procedures under the Trump administration, a freeze in visa appointment slots, and a rise in visa rejection rates.
Data indicates a sharp decline in F-1 visas issued to Indian students. Between March and May 2025, the number of F-1 visas granted to Indian students was 9,906, the lowest for this period since the COVID-19 pandemic. This represents a 27% decrease compared to the same period last year. In comparison, 14,987 student visas were issued in 2023, and 13,478 in 2024. The overall numbers for January to September 2024 also reflect this downward trend, with 64,008 F-1 visas issued to Indian students, a significant drop from over 103,000 in 2023 and 93,181 in 2022. In the first half of fiscal year 2025, F-1 visa issuances to Indian students dropped by 44% compared to the first half of 2024.
The stricter approach to immigration under the Trump administration is a major factor contributing to this decline. Several student visas have reportedly been canceled, including some for Indian applicants, allegedly due to their involvement in pro-Palestine protests or run-ins with the police. In May 2025, the U.S. government paused pending visa interviews and implemented stricter vetting measures, including social media background checks, leading to widespread delays and cancellations. The US Embassy in New Delhi had advised F, M, and J visa applicants to make their social media profiles public to help with screening.
Education consultants have also pointed to increasing uncertainty due to changes that began taking shape last year. The decline accelerated sharply after May 2025, when the U.S. government paused pending visa interviews and implemented stricter vetting measures. These measures have led to widespread delays and cancellations.
The U.S. Embassy has acknowledged the delays and increased scrutiny, stating that the adjudication of visa applications is critically important to national security and public safety. A spokesperson encouraged applicants to apply early and anticipate additional processing time. The US Consulate General in Hyderabad has shared that slots have resumed and has advised checking the embassy or consulate website for appointment availability.
The sharp drop in visa approvals has serious implications for U.S. universities that rely heavily on Indian students, who make up one of the largest international student populations. With more red tape, delays, and uncertainty, many students are now facing serious disruptions to their study plans, leaving both students and colleges scrambling for clarity. Some universities could see a 70% drop in Indian students this fall.
Despite these challenges, the U.S. remains a popular destination for Indian students seeking higher education. The U.S. offers a wide variety of courses, lucrative job opportunities, and student-friendly visa policies. American universities provide a diverse academic, athletic, and cultural environment. Many U.S. universities and colleges allow students to work on internships, enabling them to network with leading employers and secure lucrative placement offers. However, the current visa crisis is causing anxiety and uncertainty among students and their families.
