The Trump administration has expanded US travel bans to 39 countries, blocking student and exchange visas for many nations, including Nigeria. Education groups warn the move will reduce international student enrollment and damage US competitiveness, while critics question the data used to justify the restrictions.

Syria’s transitional government has introduced curriculum changes emphasizing religious themes and removing Assad-era content, prompting concern from activists who argue the reforms were made without public participation and contradict pledges of inclusivity.

The US State Department has revoked over 6,000 international student visas due to legal violations, overstays, and alleged security concerns. Most cases involved criminal offences, while a smaller number were linked to broadly defined terrorism-related laws. The move is part of tighter immigration controls and enhanced screening of foreign students.

In April 2025, the Dutch government implemented substantial budget cuts to higher education, totaling €497 million, with €186 million specifically targeting international student policies. These cuts were accompanied by measures aimed at limiting the influx of non-Dutch students and promoting Dutch-language instruction. Education Minister Eppo Bruins proposed that no more than one-third of undergraduate teaching be conducted in a foreign language and introduced mechanisms to restrict and evaluate English-language degree programs. Additionally, universities will be required to cap the number of international students and may face reduced per-student funding if limits are not met.

London – The British government has announced its plans for the most significant changes to immigration law since Brexit, detailed in the white paper "Restoring control over the immigration system." The reforms aim to substantially reduce net migration, boost domestic demand for skilled workers, and restore public confidence in the immigration system.

In a move to strengthen its position as a global education hub, Spain has introduced a fast-track visa program for international students who are unable to continue their studies in the United States due to restrictive immigration policies implemented under President Donald Trump.