The Trump administration’s recent policies have created uncertainty and fear among international students studying in the United States. Over 1.1 million international students contributed $43.8 billion to the US economy in the 2023-2024 academic year, creating 378,175 jobs nationwide. However, the administration’s crackdown on student visas and immigration policies has led to widespread concern.
Visa Revocations and Uncertainty
According to NAFSA, a US nonprofit organization, the State Department instructed US embassies to pause scheduling new student visa appointments, expanding social media screenings for applicants. This move has left many students anxious, worried about their status, and fearful of deportation. “It’s been very turbulent, and equally terrifying with each development that comes,” said Khadija Mahmoud, a 21-year-old international student at Georgetown University.
Economic Consequences
The decline in international students could have significant economic consequences for the US. Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of NAFSA, warned that other countries are opening their doors to international students, and the US risks losing out on talent and revenue. “When your enrollment declines, then you’re going to have some economic challenges and that’s going to force institutions to have to make some very difficult decisions and choices,” Aw explained.
Impact on Specific Communities
The Trump administration’s policies have particularly targeted international students who have shown support for Palestinians in Gaza. Georgetown University student Mahmoud feels that her college hasn’t been vocal enough in supporting students’ rights and freedom of speech. The detention of Dr. Badar Suri, a postdoctoral scholar who spoke out against Israel’s war in Gaza, became a turning point on campus, with many international students speaking up and taking to social media.
Reasons for Studying in the US
Despite the uncertainty, many international students choose to study in the US for its academic freedom, diversity, and cultural experience. Noor Ali, a 23-year-old from Pakistan, chose the US for its familiarity through movies and TV shows. “These values of American democracy are about American freedom…and a lot of focus on ethics and morality, and it used to be known for its academic freedom, and a lot of focus on diversity,” Ali said.
Data on International Students
In the 2023-2024 academic year:
- 1.1 million international students studied in the US
- India and China made up 54% of the total, with 331,602 and 277,398 students, respectively
- California hosted the highest number of international students, with 140,858 contributing $6.4 billion to the state’s economy
- International students contributed $43.8 billion to the US economy and created 378,175 jobs nationwide.