US college applications from international students fell by nearly 10% this year, with about 16,000 fewer overseas applicants seeking places at American universities compared with 2025. Data from the Common App, which surveyed 1,146 colleges, shows the decline is the largest in at least a decade. Applications from students in Asia and Africa recorded double-digit declines, while applications from Europe fell 4%, reversing several years of growth. The decline comes amid stricter US visa policies and increased scrutiny of international students. For universities, the trend could affect international enrolment and finances, as overseas students are an important source of tuition revenue and campus diversity. The shift could also encourage students to consider alternative destinations such as the UK, Canada, Australia and other countries. Indian students planning to study in the US should therefore carefully evaluate visa policies, costs, university options and alternative study-abroad destinations before making decisions.
US College Applications: International Students Down 10% in 2026
