International student applications to American colleges declined by 10 percent during the most recent application cycle, representing a decrease of approximately 16,000 applicants, according to newly released data from Common App. The decline marks a significant shift after nearly a decade of steady growth in international applications. The number of international applicants had increased from approximately 90,000 in the 2016-17 cycle to nearly 165,000 in 2024-25, before falling to about 148,000 in the most recent cycle.

The decline appears to reflect growing uncertainty surrounding U.S. immigration and student visa policies. Changes in the immigration environment, including increased visa restrictions and concerns about the ability to remain in the United States, may be making international students more hesitant to apply. The largest decreases were reported among applicants from Asia and Africa, with applications declining by 11 percent and 17 percent respectively. The trend could have significant implications for American colleges that depend on international enrollment for academic diversity and institutional revenue.

Despite the decline in international applications, the overall number of students applying through Common App continued to grow. Approximately 1.5 million applicants submitted applications during the 2025-26 cycle, representing a 2 percent increase from the previous year. Growth was particularly strong among students from lower income communities, Black students, and students from small towns and rural areas. Applications from students qualifying for fee waivers increased by 6 percent, while applicants from lower income ZIP codes increased by 8 percent.

The changing application landscape comes as American colleges face increasing competition for a shrinking number of high school graduates. While international enrollment may become more uncertain, the growth of applicants from historically underrepresented and geographically diverse communities offers new opportunities for colleges and universities. The latest data suggests that higher education institutions will need to adapt their recruitment strategies as the demographics and geographic backgrounds of college applicants continue to evolve.

(Inside Higher Ed Sep. 3, 2026)