Recent data shows that the United States has sharply reduced the issuance of F-1 academic visas for Chinese students. Key TakeawaysSignificant Reductions: F-1 student visa issuances for Chinese nationals saw a decline of nearly 50 percent during peak processing months compared to historical averages. F-1 student visa issuances for Chinese nationals saw a decline of nearly 50 percent during peak processing months compared to historical averages. American colleges and universities depend heavily on international students to balance their financial books. As the United States tightens its borders, other English-speaking nations are welcoming displaced international students.