This study aims to compare the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on international students in Japan and the United States based on a framework that shows the influence of government policies and university responses on international students' experiences and choices. Analysis of 494 survey responses indicates significant differences between international students in Japan and the US in information acquisition, financial difficulty, confusion regarding visas, and perceived prejudice/discrimination, which seem to be influenced by government policies and institutional support systems in the two countries. They also reported different experiences with online classes and counseling services. Participants from low or lower-middle-income countries tend to report more financial difficulty and impact on employment than those from upper-middle-income countries. More than half of the participants predicted decreased student flow from their home countries. More concerted efforts by the government and universities will be needed to address international students' specific needs and realize attractive and sustainable international education.