International students seeking to study in the United States are facing unprecedented challenges due to new government policies. Heightened visa vetting, travel bans, and increased scrutiny of applicants' social media have led to significant delays and a sharp drop in new enrollments. Many students from countries such as China, India, and Iran have been unable to secure visas, with some giving up on their plans to study in the United States altogether.

Universities are feeling the impact, with fewer international students arriving and concerns about the loss of talent and diversity on campus. Some institutions have offered alternative options, such as starting studies at partner campuses abroad, but many students are choosing to enroll elsewhere. The uncertainty and restrictive measures have prompted legal challenges and widespread criticism from educators and advocacy groups, who argue that the policies undermine academic freedom and global collaboration.