University of Denver Faces Decline in International Enrollment Amid National Downturn
DENVER, CO - September 2, 2025 The University of Denver is experiencing a steep decline in international student enrollment, reflecting a troubling national trend that could reshape higher education finances and research capacity.
Across the United States, colleges and universities have lost about 130,600 international students since March 2024, an 11 percent drop. The University of Denver, which depends on tuition for nearly three-quarters of its revenue, is particularly vulnerable to such shifts. Administrators warn that continued declines threaten the institution’s budget stability, classroom diversity, and research competitiveness.
The falloff stems from a mix of factors, including stricter visa policies, funding uncertainties for graduate programs, and heightened global competition. While U.S. institutions report that 42 percent saw declines in new international enrollments in fall 2024, countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Ireland are attracting growing numbers of students.
Colorado schools have also been directly affected. At CU Boulder and Colorado State University, dozens of international students recently had their visas revoked amid federal enforcement actions. Although the University of Denver has not reported similar disruptions, leaders are concerned about the ripple effects.
National experts caution that the loss of international students threatens more than tuition dollars. Many graduate programs, especially in STEM fields, rely on international students to support teaching, research, and innovation. Without corrective action, they argue, the United States risks ceding its long-held role as a global hub for higher education.