American universities fear the Trump administration’s purge of foreign students could trigger a cash crisis.

More than 1,000 students, from an estimated 160 colleges, have had their visas or legal status revoked, in some cases because of their views on Gaza, according to the latest figures.

But in others they are facing deportation for minor criminal offences and even traffic violations.

While many of the cases are being fought in the courts, colleges fear that applications could plummet from overseas.

According to NAFSA: Association of International Educators 1.1 million international students at US colleges and universities contributed $43.8billion (£33billion) to the American economy during the 2023-2024 academic year.

They also supported more than 378,000 jobs.