Recent reports of a sharp decline in Utica University’s international student population may not tell the full story.
Last year, the university enrolled about 200 international students. A recent Morning Mention suggested that the number has fallen to around 40. However, Elizabeth Nassar, Utica’s Director of Academic Business Development and Principal Designated School Officer for international students, said that figure is misleading.
“The numbers circulating are not accurate,” Nassar said. She explained that the university does not impose a cap on overall international enrollment, but undergraduate enrollment this fall came close to the target set for that category.
“In terms of undergraduates, we’re just under the cap, so the change there isn’t as dramatic as it may appear,” she said.
Nassar said the most significant decline is in the graduate population, which was more directly affected by Visa pauses and other global enrollment challenges. She added that the university is working with the provost’s office to review the situation and support international enrollment moving forward.
For students, the shift has still been noticeable. Revati Nishant, president of the International Student Union (ISU), called the smaller community “bittersweet.”
“As the president of the International Student Union, it’s tough to see the drop in international student numbers, especially since I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many new faces and was excited for a more vibrant, diverse community,” Nishant said. “While we recognize the challenges this decline poses, it also makes us feel fortunate and more connected to the opportunity we’ve been given.”
Nishant added that international students remain committed to contributing to Utica’s campus life. “Whether we’re from India, Pakistan, Korea, Ghana, or elsewhere, we understand how meaningful it is to study abroad,” she said. “Each of us brings a piece of our home countries, and we see this as a responsibility to make the most of the experience. Despite the drop in numbers, we remain a resilient group, and we never take this opportunity for granted.
Looking ahead, Nishant said ISU’s role will be to foster inclusion and help international students integrate fully into the campus community.
“We want to ensure that international students feel on the same level as their peers,” she said.
While the graduate decline reflects broader national challenges in international higher education, including stricter Visa requirements, financial barriers and global competition, Nassar emphasized that Utica remains committed to welcoming international students.
“We value the diverse perspectives and experiences they bring,” she said. “Our goal is to continue making Utica a place where international students can thrive.”
