Even in ivy-covered halls, the tides of policy and politics can reshape the flow of talent across oceans.
Indian Enrolment Takes a Hit
Harvard University saw a sharp decline in Indian student numbers in the fall of 2025, even as its overall share of international students reached a record high. Data released by the university shows enrolment from India fell by about 31 per cent, dropping to 545 students from 788 the previous year. Indian students were enrolled across Harvard’s schools, including 31 in College, 107 in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, 115 in the Business School, and smaller numbers in other graduate and professional schools.
Despite this, Harvard’s international student population edged up slightly, with foreign students making up 28 per cent of total enrolment—6,749 students—the highest proportion since at least 2002. While overall foreign enrolment rose less than 1 per cent, the number of Chinese students increased by roughly 4.5 per cent, from 1,203 to 1,452. Enrolment from South Korea also rose by 8.7 per cent, while numbers from India, the UK, and Canada either remained flat or declined.
Politics, Graduate Growth, and Changing Demographics
The decline in Indian enrolment comes amid pressure from the Trump administration, which had sought to limit international students and froze federal research funding for Harvard. Federal courts ruled in the university’s favour, but appeals and ongoing scrutiny have created an uncertain environment for foreign students.
At Harvard College, undergraduate international enrolment fell 2.6 per cent, offset by growth in graduate and professional programs. The T.H. Chan School of Public Health saw the fastest increase, with an 8 per cent rise. Nationally, foreign graduate student numbers fell 12 per cent, contrasting with Harvard’s growth. The university also reported slight shifts in racial composition: Asian American students rose to 17.6 per cent, while White, Black, and Hispanic student shares dipped slightly.
Amid shifting policies and geopolitics, the flow of global talent continues, bending around obstacles but never fully stopping.
Summary
In fall 2025, Indian student enrolment at Harvard fell 31 per cent to 545, even as overall international student share hit a record 28 per cent. Chinese and South Korean numbers grew, offsetting declines. Graduate program growth, political pressures, and federal disputes under the Trump administration shaped these trends, with slight demographic shifts reflecting a broader change in the student body.
