New Delhi, Aug. 24 -- Every August, the largest batch of Indian students heading abroad for higher studies typically goes to the US. It is called the fall season. But this year, the numbers tell a different story. Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) have seen a 25-50% drop in applications for loans to study in the US, as have counsellors who help students navigate the study-abroad admissions process amid unavailability of visa slots.

However, the decline is expected to be temporary. While some students are eyeing universities in other countries or deferring their admissions by a year, the number heading to the US is likely to rise again by next fall.

"US student enrollment has significantly dropped over the past 5-6 months due to th...