U.S. policies have revoked visas, increased social media screenings, and delayed visa appointments
As President Donald Trump’s administration tightens restrictions on international students, global college applications are surging elsewhere. According to NAFSA, U.S. international enrollment could decline by up to 40% this fall, costing the economy $7 billion.
U.S. policies have revoked visas, increased social media screenings, and delayed visa appointments. These changes have deterred applicants, many of whom now consider universities in the U.K., Hong Kong, and the UAE.
“Opting for study in Asia has been a trend since the easing of COVID-19,” said Will Kwong of AAS Education. The U.K. reported a 14% rise in U.S. student applications and a 10% increase from China.
In Hong Kong, transfer requests from U.S. students have surged. “The American brand has taken a massive hit,” said Illume CEO Mike Henniger.
Dubai and Kazakhstan, hosting satellite campuses of U.S. schools, are seeing growth as students seek alternatives. “You have students who want to come to the U.S. and can’t,” said international education adviser Daniel Palm.