Indian students, long aspiring to study in the United States, are increasingly turning to other countries due to President Trump’s stringent visa policies, which have led to a sharp decline in student arrivals and heightened uncertainty about future opportunities.
For decades, Indian families have invested heavily in sending their children to US universities, viewing it as a gateway to successful careers. However, recent policy shifts under the Trump administration, including a $100,000 fee for H-1B work visas and tighter scrutiny on student visas, are causing many to reconsider. Avi, an 18-year-old from Bihar, had his visa application denied, citing insufficient ties to his home country, a common reason for rejections that has left him feeling humiliated and deterred from reapplying.
The impact is evident in the numbers: Indian student visa arrivals in July and August plummeted by approximately 45% compared to the same period last year, according to latest government statistics. This steep decline, the most significant since the pandemic, signals a potential shift in the long-standing trend of India sending the most students to the US. Education consultants report higher rejection rates and fewer visa appointment slots, exacerbating the challenges for prospective students.
Experts like Sudhanshu Kaushik of the North American Association of Indian Students describe a “climate of fear and uncertainty” that contradicts the traditional American dream narrative. Students like Puja, a law student in the US, face mounting debt—over $90,000 in her case—with dwindling job prospects due to employers’ reluctance to sponsor visas. The uncertainty is forcing many to hedge their bets by considering universities in India, Canada, or Europe.
The H-1B visa fee hike to $100,000, justified by the administration as a measure to curb abuse and prioritize American workers, has raised concerns about its chilling effect on STEM fields and beyond. Even students in high-demand areas like math and computers, such as Hemaksh Swara, are opting out of US programs, fearing the financial burden and reduced job security. Employers are reportedly pulling back on hiring international candidates to avoid the high costs.
Broader economic implications are significant, as international students contribute billions to the US economy and fill critical roles in tech, healthcare, and other sectors. An analysis by NAFSA estimates a potential 30-40% decline in new enrollment could cost local economies $7 billion and over 60,000 jobs. Notable Indian-origin CEOs like Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella, who started on student visas, highlight the historical benefits of this exchange.
Despite the tensions, some experts remain optimistic that the US-India educational relationship will endure. Imran Khan of HumStudy consultancy believes the current “noise” will subside, and the US market will remain attractive. However, for now, students are advised to explore alternatives, waiting for more policy clarity before committing to the American dream.