The Open Doors fall snapshot shows a 17% decline in new international student enrollment this year, driven largely by fewer incoming graduate students and visa delays, the Institute of International Education reported. Overall international headcounts fell 1% year‑over‑year, buoyed by continuing students and Optional Practical Training participants, but institutions surveyed flagged a sharp drop in first‑time arrivals. Separately, national enrollment analyses underscore a longer‑term shift: adult learners and short‑term credentials are rising while traditional 18‑to‑24 cohorts shrink. Colleges are responding with easier admissions processes, fee waivers and recruitment pushes to stabilize enrollments and revenue.