Classes kicked off this week at the University at Buffalo, but about 750 international students are missing from campus. These new students who did arrive were welcomed by the dean, Tomás Aguirre. He acknowledged the challenges they faced, especially with visa delays. “We’re so glad you’re here,” he told them, as many represented over 100 countries.
Daria Tofan, a freshman from Romania, finally secured her student visa just a week before orientation. She described the wait as “awful.” Many of her peers faced similar struggles. For instance, Shivaka Sing, a psychology major from New Delhi, joined a group chat with classmates who also planned to attend Buffalo. Unfortunately, most couldn’t get their visas in time and are considering transferring to universities in the U.K. or deferring their studies.
This trend isn’t unique to Buffalo. Nationwide, universities are seeing a decline in international student enrollments, particularly in graduate STEM programs. Arizona State University and institutions across Texas and Illinois are also facing drops. Massachusetts projects about 10,000 fewer international students this year.
Fanta Aw from the Association of International Educators highlighted the uncertainty surrounding student visas, stating, “The situation is very much in flux.” Last year, over a million international students contributed $43 billion to the U.S. economy. However, a projected decline of 150,000 international students this fall could cost local economies around $7 billion and more than 60,000 jobs.
Aw expressed concern about the impact on innovation, emphasizing that losing these students affects communities of all sizes. Meanwhile, other countries, like the U.K. and South Korea, are working to attract those displaced by the current U.S. visa situation.
The U.S. has seen mixed messages regarding visa policies. While President Trump has aimed to tighten security for student visas, he recently indicated he’d like to see more international students come to the U.S., citing their contributions. Scott Webber, the provost at Buffalo, assured that international students do not take spots from U.S. students, as total enrollment is actually increasing at the university.
International students not only enhance campus culture but also provide significant financial contributions. Many pay full tuition, which helps subsidize costs for domestic students.
As college life settles for these newcomers, Shivaka Sing, now at Buffalo, is focused on her studies and adjusting to life away from home. To cope with homesickness, she has brought a few stuffed animals to her dorm—reminders of home as she embarks on her new journey.
This situation underlines the challenges and changes affecting international education in the U.S., with potential long-lasting impacts on culture, economy, and innovation in higher education.
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