A US federal judge has blocked a Trump administration rule that would impose fixed stay limits on foreign students, exchange visitors and foreign media representatives. The rule was scheduled to take effect Tuesday and would have replaced the existing duration-of-status system.
Indian student applications to US colleges fell sharply in 2025-26, with a 15% decline compared to the previous year, according to the Common App report. Stricter visa rules, capped stays, and proposed high fees for Optional Practical Training are cited as key reasons.
