Trump Administration Crackdown Cuts F-1 Visas for India and China

The Federal government of the United States, under the Trump administration, implemented a crackdown on foreign university applicants that resulted in a sharp decline in F-1 student visas. According to a report from the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS), visas for Indian nationals fell 60% and visas for Chinese nationals dropped 46% between May and August 2025 compared to historical averages from 2017-2019 and 2021-2024.

These two groups accounted for 53% of all international students in U.S. post-secondary institutions during the 2024-25 academic year. This trend contributes to a reported 20% overall decline in foreign student enrollment for the 2025-26 school year. To further restrict the pipeline, the administration is considering a $100,000 visa fee for foreign students using the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which permits graduates to work in the U.S. for several years.

CIS suggests the decline may benefit American workers by increasing opportunities in competitive sectors. The report also emphasizes national security risks, alleging that the Chinese government may pressure STEM students to assist in military advancements, espionage, or intellectual property theft. Testimonies from former U.S. officials indicate that Chinese graduate students are briefed by their government both when departing for and returning from the U.S., and that students are often co-opted by their governments despite having no nefarious initial intent.