Maryland’s public universities have reported a notable decline in international student enrolment over the past year, amid growing visa uncertainty and immigration policy concerns in the United States. According to a report by WTOP News, at least 449 international students were lost across the state’s public university system between fall 2024 and fall 2025, with experts warning that the actual number could be higher.
Overall international student numbers decline
Data shared by 11 of Maryland’s public universities shows that total international student enrolment dropped from 7,608 in fall 2024 to 7,159 in fall 2025. Eight universities recorded a fall in numbers, collectively losing 569 international students. This decline was only partly offset by gains at three institutions, which together added 120 students.The international student population now makes up a smaller share of the more than 118,000 students enrolled across these campuses, highlighting a broader trend of reduced international mobility.
University of Maryland, College Park reports biggest loss
The University of Maryland, College Park experienced the largest numerical decline, with international student numbers falling from around 4,260 in fall 2024 to about 3,980 in fall 2025 — a loss of nearly 300 students, or 6.7%, WTOP News reported.The university’s enrolment data does not include countries with fewer than five students, meaning the actual decline may be higher than reported.
Graduate enrolment hit hard at UMBC
The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) saw one of the steepest percentage drops, losing more than 200 international students, a decline of about 23% over the year. While international undergraduate enrolment increased slightly, the number of incoming international graduate students fell sharply by more than 230 students.University officials acknowledged the concern but expressed confidence in supporting international students through the changing policy environment.
Smaller campuses also report declines
Several other Maryland universities also saw reduced international enrolment. Frostburg State University recorded a 15.2% decrease, while Salisbury University reported an 11% drop, equivalent to 10 students. Bowie State University, Towson University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore each reported declines of under 10%.St. Mary’s College of Maryland experienced the steepest percentage drop at 80%, although this reflected a decrease from five international students in fall 2024 to just one in fall 2025.
Visa uncertainty and travel restrictions cited as key factors
Experts quoted by WTOP News attributed the decline to the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, including travel bans, visa interview pauses, visa revocations and limited institutional support. Although many student visas revoked earlier in the year were later restored, uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on prospective international students.Rachel Banks, senior director of public policy and legislative strategy at NAFSA, said students are increasingly considering alternative study destinations that appear more stable and welcoming.
Concerns over proposed limits on duration of study
Banks also highlighted concerns around proposals to limit the duration of international students’ stay in the US to four years, replacing the current policy that allows students to remain until their studies are completed. Such changes, she said, could discourage students in long-term programmes, particularly PhDs, from choosing the US.The uncertainty has made countries such as Canada and the UK more attractive options for international students, she added.Some universities see growth despite challengesNot all institutions reported losses. Coppin State University recorded the largest increase, with international enrolment rising by 25%, adding 16 students. The University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Morgan State University also saw increases of 8.1% and 9.2%, respectively.
Impact on research, innovation and campus diversity
Education leaders warned that declining international enrolment could have long-term consequences for research, innovation and campus diversity. International students play a crucial role in research universities, particularly in science, technology and healthcare fields, and contribute significantly to campus culture and local economies.Despite the short-term declines, state officials said Maryland remains committed to being a welcoming destination for students from around the world, even as global competition for international talent intensifies.
