Over 100,000 International Students May Face Problems Due to New U.S. Visa Rules
Big changes in U.S. visa rules may stop thousands of students from starting their studies in 2025, especially from countries like China, India, and Pakistan.
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The United States has made new rules for student visas that could stop more than 100,000 international students from studying there in 2025.
The U.S. government has paused all new student visa interviews and started canceling some student visas, mostly for Chinese students. This has created confusion and fear among students who want to study in the U.S. this year.
1. Visa Interviews Stopped Around the World
On May 27, 2025, the U.S. said that all new student visa interviews are paused. They are updating their systems to check people’s social media and other online activity.
Many students from India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Brazil had planned to get their visa interviews in June or July. Now they may not get their visas in time for the fall semester starting in August or September.
There is no date yet for when the interviews will start again.
2. Chinese Students’ Visas Being Cancelled
The U.S. is also canceling visas for many Chinese students, especially those studying science and technology (STEM fields).
News agencies say that up to 50,000 Chinese students in California alone could be affected. Some students were told their visas were canceled without warning. More students across the U.S. may face the same issue.
There are about 277,000 Chinese students currently in the U.S., so this is a big change.
3. U.S. Government Tries to Stop Harvard from Hosting International Students
In a surprise move, the U.S. government also tried to stop Harvard University from having international students. A judge said “no” for now, but many top universities are now worried.
Harvard has around 6,800 students from other countries. If the U.S. continues this policy, more schools could be affected.
Why This Matters
International students spend a lot of money in the U.S.—about $38 billion every year. They pay tuition, rent, and buy food and supplies. They also help universities with research and diversity.
If these students don’t come, universities will lose money and talent. Many may now choose to go to Canada, the UK, Australia, or Germany instead.
Estimated Number of Students Affected
| Type of Problem | How Many Students |
|---|---|
| Interview Freeze (New Applicants) | 40,000 – 60,000 |
| Chinese Student Visa Cancellations | 50,000 – 70,000 |
| Harvard and Other University Issues | 6,000 – 10,000 |
| Total Affected (Estimate) | Around 130,000 students |
What’s Next?
Governments in countries like India, China, and Nigeria are asking the U.S. to explain. Many students are now changing their plans and looking to study in other countries.
American colleges are also asking the U.S. government to stop or delay these new rules so students can come this fall.
It is not clear if these rules will change soon or stay for a long time.
