Texas universities could lose thousands of international students, millions of dollars

In North Texas, public universities could lose thousands of students — and millions of dollars — because of recent state and federal policy changes.

Though enrollment totals for the coming year won’t be final until early September, the University of Texas at Arlington said in a draft 2026 budget published by the University of Texas Board of Regents it’s projecting a 40% drop in international students – down from more than 5,500 last year.

“Based on enrollment projections, general student tuition revenue is expected to decline $13 million -$15.6 million in FY 2026 when compared to the FY 2025 budget,” the draft reads.

The University of North Texas meanwhile said the loss of international students has left a $50 million hole in the school’s budget.

Thousands of international students