Drop in International Student Numbers Costs US Economy Billions of Dollars
A new study reveals that the loss of international students in the US will lead to billions of dollars in economic damage and the loss of tens of thousands of jobs.
A decrease of 111,000 international students in the US has caused $3.4 billion in losses to the country's economy while putting nearly 40,000 jobs at risk. Strict immigration and visa policies lie behind this decline.
Research Results and Economic Loss
A new study prepared by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and JB International revealed that the US is facing a major economic loss in the newly starting academic year. Accordingly, the loss of 111,000 international students will cost the country $3.4 billion and cause approximately 40,000 job losses.
Compounding Losses Over the Years
NAFSA CEO Fanta Aw stated that this loss will not be limited to just a single year, but will multiply over the years depending on the duration of the programs. A crisis picture of four years emerges for undergraduate programs and at least two years for master's programs.
Projections for Future Years
If current visa policies remain unchanged, similar deficits are expected in the coming years. According to calculations, a further decrease of thousands of students in the upcoming period will lead to a compounding of total financial losses and employment threats.
Declining International Interest
According to data provided by the Studyportals platform, potential international students' interest in the US is gradually decreasing. Significant drops in the intention to study in the US have been recorded, particularly among students from countries such as India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, the UK, and Canada.