US faces $7 billion loss from declining international student numbers: Can universities stay globally competitive?

The US faces a potential $7 billion loss in revenue and more than 60,000 jobs as international student enrolments are projected to drop 30–40 percent. Visa pauses and new restrictions under President Trump’s administration are reducing access to foreign talent, affecting both universities and research teams. California could lose over $1 billion alone. Experts warn the decline threatens innovation, academic diversity, and global competitiveness in higher education. H-1B visa changes compound the impact.