Why the US values international students.

• The US has paused scheduling of new visa interviews globally and expanded its social media account verification of foreign students.

• This move follows the administration’s attempts to block the University of Harvard from enrolling international students.

• The move is part of a wider effort to limit immigration, which could significantly impact US universities and the economy.

• The Open Doors International students’ data shows a 6.6% increase in international students in the US in 2023-2024, with students from India and China making up over 50% of all international students.

• The US State Department plans to work with the Department of Homeland Security to revoke visas for Chinese students, including those with “connections” to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields.

• International students from India and China are engaged in key science and research fields, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy.

• International students brought in $43.8 billion to the U.S economy in 2023 through tuition fees, housing and living expenses, and job creation.