Students 'opt out' of US amid visa woes

THE ONGOING STANDOFF between the US government and Ivy League universities, along with stricter post-study visa rules, increasing cancellations of H-1B visas, and high rejection rates, is weighing heavily on the minds of Indian students planning to pursue higher education in the US.

- MANU KAUSHIK

Study abroad platforms have reported a 30% drop in applications in recent weeks, as students grow increasingly cautious about investing time and money in a country facing policy uncertainty.

A reduction in university funding, stricter work permit regulations, and rising student visa rejections are significantly deterring Indian students from choosing the US for higher education. The current trend indicates a decline of around 30%. With rising costs, fewer scholarships, limited post-study work opportunities, and growing uncertainty, many students—especially those from middle-class or ROI-focused backgrounds—may shift toward more welcoming destinations like Ireland, the UK, Germany, and Australia," said the head of a study abroad platform with significant exposure to the US market.