August 20th, 2025 - Trump's Tactics Could Prevent Many International Students from Reaching Campus

Many international students, especially those from Iran, Afghanistan, and even China and India, are struggling to reach U.S. campuses this fall due to challenges created by the Trump administration’s policies. Heightened visa vetting and the ongoing travel ban have severely impacted the ability of students to get to their universities. These obstacles are expected to result in a sharp drop in international student enrollment in the U.S., with projections indicating a potential loss of up to 150,000 students.

Despite over a million international students enrolled in the U.S. last year, universities are already seeing a decline in applications. A survey of more than 500 schools revealed that 35% of them reported a dip in international applications, the highest since the pandemic. Issues with visa appointments have been especially acute for students from China and India, with many unable to secure appointments in recent months.

The Trump administration’s policies have led to the suspension of visa appointments, prolonged processing times, and more rigorous scrutiny, particularly regarding applicants’ social media activity. Some students have abandoned plans to study in the U.S. out of fear over the political climate, while others are concerned about being effectively trapped if they manage to enter, unable to pursue internships or visit family.

International students contribute significantly to the revenue of U.S. universities, and the loss of these students will be felt deeply, especially at top-tier institutions. In response to the visa issues, some schools have offered students the option to begin their studies at foreign campuses, but this has not been a widely accepted solution. As a result, many international students are turning to European and Asian universities instead.

The Trump administration has attempted to address these issues by increasing scrutiny of visa applicants from certain countries, including those under the travel ban. These restrictions have had a significant impact on students from countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and Venezuela, who now face further delays or outright bans from entering the U.S. to study.

While the government maintains that the increased vetting is necessary for national security, critics argue that it unfairly targets students and limits academic and cultural exchange. With U.S. universities losing valuable talent and revenue, the consequences of these policies are expected to have a lasting impact on the country’s higher education system.

Word of the Day (Merriam-Webster) - Salient (adj, SAIL-yunt) - Something described as salient is very important or noticeable.

Example: The assignment was to write down the most salient points made in the article.