US law schools see sharp drop in international student applications (opens original article in a new tab)

US law schools experience a significant decline in international student applications, particularly from China and India, due to visa issues, competition from cheaper foreign programs, and perceived unwelcoming policies.

• US law schools report over 20% drop in international student applications for LL.M. programs
• China and India saw 21% and 23% declines in LL.M. applicants respectively
• Student visa denials and competition from cheaper foreign LL.M. programs contribute to the decline
• LL.M. programs are a key revenue source for US law schools due to high tuition and limited financial aid
• International graduate student enrollment in the US fell 12% in fall 2025
• Over half of ABA-accredited law schools have LL.M. programs for foreign-trained lawyers