Washington D.C.- In response to the grim projections, NAFSA has urged the U.S. State Department to act quickly. Their recommendations include: Speaking to the broader implications, Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of NAFSA, told Forbes that the enrollment crisis is “just the tip of the iceberg.” What this means for Indian students. For thousands of Indian students planning to join US universities this fall, these developments raise serious concerns. Many are facing uncertain visa timelines, missed deadlines, and pressure to defer admissions or choose other countries
altogether. Institutions in Canada, the UK, and Australia, already known for smoother visa processes and more welcoming policies, may emerge as the winners in this global talent tug-of-war. Ultimately, the US still offers world-class education. But the country’s ability to retain its reputation as the top global study destination may now depend less on academic rankings and more on policy choices made in the next few months.