F-1, J-1 Student Visa Issuances Dropped in May
Briefly

In May 2025, the U.S. issued 12,689 fewer F-1 visas compared to the previous year, signaling potential declines in international student enrollment. A 22 percent overall drop in F-1 visas and a 13 percent reduction in J-1 visas further underscore this trend. Rachel Banks indicated that understanding enrollment levels will require waiting until September. Additionally, recent government actions, including visa revocations linked to the Chinese Communist Party, have also played a role in diminishing visa numbers. The State Department's temporary pause on visa interviews may have exacerbated the situation.
The U.S. Department of State issued 12,689 fewer F-1 visas in May 2025 compared to the May before, indicating a potential decline in international student enrollment.
The recent data indicates a 22 percent global drop in F-1 visas and a 13 percent decline in J-1 visas, suggesting a concerning trend for international education.
Rachel Banks noted that while visa issuances forecast trends in international student enrollment, the real picture will only emerge after September.
Recent actions by the Trump administration, including visa revocations for certain Chinese nationals, have contributed to the decline in F-1 visas issued.
Read at Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs
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