Story perspectives

International Students Seek Medical Study Amid Visa Hurdles

8/19/2025

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Center

Trump's Visa Restrictions

The Trump administration has increased barriers for international students by pausing visa interviews and requiring social media reviews, discouraging applicants, especially from Nepal.
Over 2.2 million candidates took the NEET UG 2025 exam in India, prompting many to consider studying medicine abroad, particularly in Japan.
Studying medicine in Japan necessitates a Certificate of Eligibility and adequate financial resources, with monthly living expenses between JPY 120,000 and JPY 150,000.
Japanese medical graduates must pass the National Medical Licensing Exam and have advanced Japanese proficiency; NEET qualifiers can start in April 2027, requiring a gap year.
In 2023, Japan's medical schools experienced a 20.8% rise in international students, indicating growing interest.

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Trump's Visa Impact

The Trump administration's policies have increased anxiety among international students, especially from Iran, due to visa challenges.
Despite concerns about political instability, 91% of foreign-born students still want to study in the U.S.
Experts predict a 30-40% decline in new international student enrollment, risking $7 billion in tuition revenue.
Some Iranian students are exploring study options in Canada, indicating a shift in academic preferences.
The U.S. may lose its status as a leading destination for international students as other countries become more inviting.

History

Historical Context

The Trump administration's "Travel Ban" in 2017 significantly impacted international student admissions, particularly from countries like Iran and Nepal. This policy was projected to cause a 30-40% decline in new enrollments, risking $7 billion in tuition revenue for U.S. institutions. As a result, many students are now considering alternatives in countries like Canada and Japan, potentially diminishing the U.S.'s status as a top educational destination.

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Trump's Visa Restrictions

The Trump administration has increased barriers for international students by pausing visa interviews and requiring social media reviews, discouraging applicants, especially from Nepal.
Over 2.2 million candidates took the NEET UG 2025 exam in India, prompting many to consider studying medicine abroad, particularly in Japan.
Studying medicine in Japan necessitates a Certificate of Eligibility and adequate financial resources, with monthly living expenses between JPY 120,000 and JPY 150,000.
Japanese medical graduates must pass the National Medical Licensing Exam and have advanced Japanese proficiency; NEET qualifiers can start in April 2027, requiring a gap year.
In 2023, Japan's medical schools experienced a 20.8% rise in international students, indicating growing interest.

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