International students are increasingly abandoning plans to study in the United States and United Kingdom. Tougher visa restrictions, rising living costs, and uncertain immigration policies are pushing students toward universities in Asia and Europe.
A global survey released on Thursday, November 12, 2026, revealed a sharp decline in international student enrolments at leading Western universities.
The study examined responses from 437 universities across 63 countries. Studyportals, NAFSA, and Oxford Test of English conducted the research.
According to the findings, international undergraduate enrolments fell by 19 percent in the United Kingdom and 13 percent in the United States during the survey period.
Canada and Australia also experienced weaker demand. Meanwhile, universities in continental Europe and Asia reported stronger international student growth.
Visa restrictions emerged as the biggest obstacle for students planning to study abroad. Lengthy processing times, tougher screening procedures, and changing work opportunities have created uncertainty.
In the United States, the Trump administration has increased scrutiny of international students. Authorities have expanded social media checks and introduced stricter immigration rules.
The government has also revoked thousands of visas, raising concerns among prospective applicants.
Britain has introduced similar restrictions to control immigration. Most international students can no longer bring family dependants under standard student visa arrangements.
The country also plans to shorten the period graduates can remain to seek employment after completing their studies.
These changes have encouraged students to explore alternative destinations offering more predictable immigration policies.
The survey found that 79 percent of participating UK universities reported declining international postgraduate recruitment.
American universities also expressed concern about future admissions. More than one-third expect international enrolments to decline further.
International students provide significant financial support to universities through tuition fees and living expenses.
A continued decline could affect university budgets, research funding, and local economies.
NAFSA Chief Executive Fanta Aw emphasized that government policies strongly influence where students choose to study and build careers.
The findings suggest that Asia and Europe could gain a larger share of the global education market as traditional destinations face growing competition.
