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Study Abroad in November 2025: Major Policy Changes, Statistics & Essential Information for Indian Students
Last Updated: November 2025 | By AbroBot Research Team
Executive Summary
November 2025 represents a significant turning point in the realm of international education. While established destinations such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia are instituting more rigorous visa regulations and enrollment limits, emerging options in Germany and Southeast Asia are transforming the global study abroad environment. This report highlights key data for Indian students preparing their applications for the 2025-2026 academic year.
🇺🇸 UNITED STATES: Decline in Enrollment & Visa Challenges
The Numbers
- New international student enrollment: DOWN 17%(Fall 2025 compared to Fall 2024)
-Graduate enrollment: DOWN 12% (with master's programs most affected)
-Undergraduate enrollment: UP 2% (modest growth)
-Overall enrollment: DOWN 1% from Fall 2024
-Economic impact: $7 billion in lost revenue and a projected loss of 60,000 jobs
Key Policy Changes (2025)
1. Five-Month Study Abroad Limit
Holders of F-1 visas may now only participate in study abroad programs lasting less than five months. Exceeding this duration will result in the loss of F-1 status, necessitating readmission with a new Form I-20.
2. Visa Processing Disruptions
- Student visa interviews were suspended from **May 27 to June 18, 2025**, during peak season.
- F-1 visa issuance decreased by 12% (January-April) and 22% in May 2025 compared to the previous year.
- Limited appointment availability at consulates in India, China, Nigeria, and Japan.
- New social media vetting protocols have been introduced.
3. Travel Restrictions
- An executive order affects **19 countries** (with 36 more under consideration).
- This threatens $3 billion in annual contributions and over 25,000 American jobs.
- 96% of universities attribute enrollment declines to visa concerns.
*Positive Updates*
-STEM OPT has been extended to 36 months (previously 24 months).
- New categories introduced: climate tech, AI, and quantum computing.
- Average F-1 visa processing time has been reduced to 21 days.
- F-1 visas can now be issued for up to "5 years" for specific programs.
State-by-State Impact
-California : 140,800 international students (highest)
-New York: 135,800 students
-Texas: 89,500 students
-Massachusetts: 82,306 students
What Indian Students Should Know
India continues to be the 'leading country of origin' with 331,602 students, although visa appointment availability remains critically limited. Graduate programs, particularly master's degrees, are experiencing the most significant decline.
For more Updates, contact the Abrobot Team.