With former President Donald Trump returning to office, his administration is expected to implement new immigration policies that may impact international students in the US. Policies affecting student visas, work rights, and even relations with certain countries could bring significant changes, potentially influencing where students choose to study and work.

Potential policy changes affecting international students

Trump's previous term saw restrictive immigration policies affecting student visas and work opportunities, particularly the H-1B visa. In fact, the denial rate for H-1B visas reached its peak during Trump's presidency – 24%, compared to 2% in 2022. Given his stance, a return to similar policies could impact post-graduation job prospects for international students, especially if limits on H-1B visas or Optional Practical Training (OPT) are reinstated, as his administration was considering that at the end of the term.

According to recent Keystone Pulse survey data, this perceived risk is prompting students from various regions to explore alternative study destinations. For instance, East Asian student interest in the US has declined, while countries like the UK and Australia are emerging as attractive options due to their favorable visa policies.

Additionally, relations with countries like China may be a focus. During Trump's first term, visa restrictions for Chinese students increased with his signing of the Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Nonimmigrants of Certain Students and Researchers from the People’s Republic of China, which impacted both student privacy and research collaboration. Now, with a new term in place, heightened tensions could further deter students from China and other regions, impacting the diversity on US campuses.

Impact on financial aid and education department policies

Trump's new term may bring notable changes to the Department of Education and federal financial aid programs. While he has proposed eliminating the Department of Education entirely – a shift that would transfer most financial aid responsibilities to states – this would be very unlikely.

However, cuts to the Education Department's funding, specifically targeting federal aid programs, could be more feasible with a Republican-controlled Congress.

Historically, Trump's budgets proposed reducing federal aid funding, including a $5.6 billion cut in 2020, with a focus on programs like Federal Work-Study and the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. If passed, these cuts may limit resources available to international and domestic students, affecting their financial access to US higher education.

Where students are looking instead

Alternative destinations are seeing a notable rise in interest. Our data shows that post-election, interest in countries like Sweden, Finland, and Singapore has surged by over 30%. These regions are increasingly appealing to students who seek welcoming study environments with stable visa policies. With countries like Canada and the UK maintaining flexible post-graduation work options, many students are reassessing the US as their top choice.

What's next?

For students still considering the US, staying informed and preparing for potential policy changes is essential. Universities may adapt recruitment strategies to address student concerns, providing support and clearer pathways for international students navigating this complex environment.

Prospective students should also leverage university resources, immigration advisors, and student organizations to understand their options and plan effectively.

As Trump's new term unfolds, students aiming for a global education in the US may need to adopt a flexible approach, ready to adjust plans to make the most of the opportunities available, regardless of shifting political landscapes.