Multiple public universities are reporting declines in international graduate enrollments this cycle, with master’s programs particularly affected. Campus leaders attributed the drop to visa delays, stricter immigration policies and heightened uncertainty about funding and program affordability. Institutions that have traditionally relied on international master’s students for revenue say the declines could force program cuts or increased recruiting costs. Surveys of graduate admissions offices show some applicants deferred or shifted to other countries with more favorable immigration pathways. Higher‑ed associations warn the shift threatens research capacity in high‑demand STEM fields and called for federal clarity on visa processing and graduate‑student funding to stabilize enrollments. Clarification: “Visa issuance challenges” refers to processing backlogs, additional interview scrutiny, or policy changes that limit timely student entry to the U.S.