The study said that F-1 student visa issuances to nationals of both countries declined sharply during the May-August 2025 period, which typically sees the highest number of student visas issued ahead of the academic year. It added that in 2024, 77 per cent of all F-1 visas issued to Indian nationals and 76 per cent issued to Chinese nationals were granted during this period. The report said Indian and Chinese nationals accounted for nearly 70 per cent of these OPT participants, with India representing 143,740 participants and China accounting for 61,981. The CIS report also raised concerns regarding national security, particularly in relation to Chinese students studying in sensitive fields such as STEM. The report alleged that the Chinese government has been pursuing military and technological advancement and said some Chinese students and researchers could face pressure to assist state objectives.