<h1>U.S. international student arrivals fall 19% in August after visa interview pause, social-media vetting and travel restrictions</h1> Federal data show international student arrivals to the United States fell about 19% in August year-over-year, with total arrivals down to 313,138, reflecting declines in June and July as universities began the academic year. The drop coincides with federal policy changes that paused visa interview scheduling, introduced social-media vetting for applicants, and imposed travel restrictions on 19 countries, producing larger regional declines (about 33% from Africa, 24% from Asia, 17% from the Middle East, including a 45% fall from India). Institutions face enrollment, revenue and reputational risks as prospective students seek alternatives abroad.