Uncertainty over US visa policies halts 30% drop in Indian students
Uncertainties surrounding student migration to the US after the regime change have led to a 30 per cent decline in the number of Indian students traveling to the country. Both the US and Canada, two of North America's top destinations for international students, have witnessed a significant drop in the number of Indian students this year.
“Many students who had planned to go to the US this year are having second thoughts. Some are in a wait-and-watch mode, while others have changed their destination,” said Suresh Kumar, director of Truematics, an overseas education consultancy.
The uncertainty stems from questions about whether the new Trump administration will be favorable to overseas students. Trump had promised more hardline immigration policies during his election campaigns. However, his recent proposal to offer green cards to international students graduating from American schools has sent mixed signals, leaving students confused about the future.
In 2023, India sent 2,69,000 students to the US and 4,27,000 to Canada. While stricter immigration policies under the Trump administration have led to a 30% decline in Indian student arrivals in the US, Canada's tightened rules have resulted in a 60 per cent drop. As a result, the combined total of Indian student arrivals to both countries for courses starting in January has seen a 50 per cent decline. September, another key month for student arrivals, is expected to show similar trends.
In contrast, countries like the UK, Ireland, and Australia are benefiting from this decline. “The UK has seen a 30 per cent increase in student arrivals, while universities in Ireland are already at full capacity. Australia is also witnessing a rise in student inquiries, although the stringent entry requirements for Australian universities mean inquiries are lower than those for other destinations,” Kumar said. France and Sweden in Europe are also seeing an increase in student arrivals this year.