Arizona's public universities are welcoming fewer international students this fall, following federal policy changes that have tightened visa processes for those seeking to study in the United States. All three state institutions - Arizona State University (ASU), the University of Arizona, and Northern Arizona University - have reported a significant drop in enrollment numbers among international students.
The decrease comes after a resurgence in stringent policies on international visas under President Donald Trump's administration. ASU in particular has experienced a 3% decline in international student enrollment, with the number sliding to roughly 14,600 from 15,104 the previous year, according to ABC15. Matt Lopez, ASU's deputy vice president of enrollment, indicated that various changes in immigration systems have caused the university to struggle to maintain previously anticipated enrollment levels of international students.
Similarly, the AZFamily reports that numerous students from overseas, especially those from India, have faced difficulties in securing visas. This challenge is in part due to a three-week suspension in visa processing implemented by the Trump administration. Even after the resumption, the capacity for appointments did not expand sufficiently to meet high demand, leaving many students unable to arrive in time for their studies.
ASU has reportedly been proactive, attempting to swiftly accommodate around 800 international students affected by the situation. In one instance, faculty have adapted by "sharing a Zoom link for a student so they could join from their home country for the first couple of days while they’re waiting to get on a plane to get here," Lopez told AZFamily.
International students at ASU have been estimated to contribute nearly $700 million annually to the state's economy through tuition, housing, and other expenditures, as reported by ABC15. The University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University, also grappling with declines of 4% and 23% respectively, have issued statements affirming their commitment to international students and outlining efforts to provide support through services such as counseling and individualized attention during the application and enrollment processes.
