Why The US Is No Longer The Dream: Indian Students Look Elsewhere
Rising visa rejections, fewer interview slots, and stricter rules are making many Indian students rethink the US for higher education.
The United States has tightened its approach towards international students, raising concerns among many Indian applicants. Under the Trump administration, tensions grew between the government and several universities — including Ivy League institutions — as federal investigations were launched and financial penalties were imposed on dozens of colleges, both public and private.
Visa rules also became stricter. Federal funding was cut, some visas were revoked, and students participating in political demonstrations were even deported. During this period of uncertainty, the US government temporarily suspended the processing of student visas for international applicants.
Although visa processing has resumed, a new condition has been introduced — applicants are now required to make their social media accounts publicly accessible for review by US officials.
According to a Times of India report, US universities have seen a significant drop in Indian student arrivals, with education consultants in Hyderabad estimating a 70% decline in student traffic.
With rising visa rejection rates, limited appointment slots, and increased scrutiny, many Indian students are now reconsidering the US as a preferred destination for higher education.
For years, the United States has been the most popular destination for Indian students seeking quality higher education. In the 2023–2024 academic year alone, over 331,602 Indian students were enrolled in US institutions, according to the Open Doors report.
But recent developments—especially around Fall 2025 admissions—suggest that the trend is shifting. A sharp drop in F-1 visa approvals, rising costs, unpredictable procedures, and growing safety concerns are prompting Indian students to look at other countries. With India being the largest source of outbound students globally, this marks a significant shift.
The student visa process has become increasingly uncertain. Though the US government doesn't share official visa refusal rates, students and consultants estimate rejection rates of 30–40% in 2024, much higher than before. Common reasons include weak financial documents, unclear post-study plans, or past visa-related issues.
In late 2024, interview wait times at consulates like Mumbai stretched to over six weeks. A system upgrade in May 2025 paused new appointments briefly, causing delays. While the backlog is now being addressed, the disruption has added to student anxiety.
Why The US Dream Is Losing Its Shine
The US's tightened visa policies, driven by national security concerns and political shifts, risk undermining its position as the world's education leader.
Unpredictable Visa Process
Even students with strong academic backgrounds and admissions to top universities are facing visa denials. Officers are demanding more documents—proof of finances, ties to India, return plans—but rejections often come without clear explanations.
Many students end up losing lakhs on test prep, application fees, and flight bookings, with little recourse or clarity on what went wrong.
Soaring Costs
Studying in the US comes with a hefty price tag. A two-year master's degree, including tuition and living expenses, can easily cross Rs 50–60 lakh. Compared to countries like Germany, where many public universities charge little to no tuition, the US offers limited scholarships or financial aid to international students.
Safety and Bias Concerns
Rising gun violence and incidents of racial profiling are causing concern. Some students report having visas revoked for minor offences, such as traffic violations or participating in peaceful campus protests.
Social media checks—especially for those linked to activism—have also raised worries about bias and lack of privacy. The Trump administration's emphasis on screening digital activity has only deepened those concerns.
Job Market Uncertainty
The US job market used to be a major attraction, but that too is becoming uncertain. The H-1B visa system—essential for post-study employment—is highly competitive, with just 85,000 slots available annually. Indians usually get around 63,000 of those, but it's a lottery with no guarantees.
The OPT (Optional Practical Training) program, which lets students work after graduation for up to three years (for STEM courses), is also under review. The Trump administration has proposed scrapping it altogether, leaving students unsure about their career prospects.
Where Are Students Looking Now?
With the US becoming less predictable, students are actively exploring countries with simpler visa rules, lower costs, and better work opportunities after graduation.
Canada: With easy-to-follow visa processes, a clear path to permanent residency (PR), and post-study work permits up to three years, Canada is a top choice. The large Indian community adds a sense of familiarity. However, recent caps on international student permits are causing some uncertainty.
Australia: Indian student visas have surged, with over 5,000 issued in January–February 2025. Australia offers flexible post-study work options (2–4 years) and friendly immigration policies. Still, past delays have led some applicants to withdraw.
United Kingdom: The UK is back in favour, thanks to its two-year post-study work visa and shorter, cost-effective courses. While its universities are well-ranked globally, the UK's visa policies also became stricter in 2025, raising concerns.
Germany and France: These countries are gaining popularity for their low or no tuition fees at public universities and a growing number of English-language programs. Germany offers an 18-month post-study work visa, and France is increasing its outreach to Indian students.
UAE and Singapore: These nearby education hubs are fast becoming alternatives. They offer modern infrastructure, access to emerging job markets, and quicker visa processing. The UAE's Golden Visa and Singapore's focus on tech and finance are particularly appealing.
The declining interest in US universities could reshape the global education map. With over 1.33 million Indian students currently studying abroad, where they choose to go matters a great deal.
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More and more, students are opting for countries that offer transparent visa systems, clearer post-study work options, and an overall sense of safety. The US, once a go-to destination, risks losing its edge unless it rebuilds trust with international applicants.
Unless the US addresses visa unpredictability, reduces rejection rates, and fosters a more welcoming environment, it may continue to fall behind countries that are actively adapting to student needs.
About the Author
Surbhi Pathak
Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11.
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First Published:
July 19, 2025, 10:46 IST
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