About 2% of the approximately 1.1 million international college students studying in the U.S. are doing so in Virginia, per data from NAFSA, an international education nonprofit.
Why it matters: NAFSA estimates that enrollment will decline this fall, including in Virginia, which could hurt college town economies.
Plus, students who come from out of state pay higher tuition, which can help offset the cost for in-state students.
By the numbers: Some 21,000 international students were enrolled in Virginia schools in 2023-24,per NAFSA, and contributed $807.2 million to our economy that year.
The bulk went to George Mason ($207.5 million), Virginia Tech ($176.7 million) and UVA ($126.8 million).
But Richmond's two largest universities — VCU ($43.5 million) and UR ($23.1 million) — also saw significant economic benefits.
The big picture: More than 6,000 student visas were revoked nationwide this year, the State Department said last week.
4,000 of those students lost their visa for crimes like assault, burglary and driving under the influence.
200-300 visas were revoked for "support for terrorism," per the agency.