Reading list: How have these policies affected U.S. universities?
Recent visa and immigration policies have directly influenced U.S. campuses. Changes in US student visa requirements and the US student visa process made many applicants rethink how to apply for US student visa, which resulted in slower international enrollments at several universities. Programs dependent on the F1 student visa USA saw the biggest impact, especially in STEM and research courses that require clear US student visa eligibility rules.
Universities that traditionally hosted both categories often explain the choice of F1 vs J1 visa to students. The F1 student visa USA is mainly for degree study, while J1 supports exchange programs. Because of longer screenings and tougher student visa interview USA procedures, some institutions faced uncertainty in planning classes, housing, and faculty hiring. Research funding and diversity initiatives linked to US student visa eligibility were also affected.
Conclusion
Overall, policy shifts around the highlighted visa paths reduced the steady flow of global talent and revenue for U.S. universities.
https://eduprofound.com/us-student-visa-policies-in-2025/