New Delhi: Indian student arrivals in the United States fell sharply by 44% over the past year, marking the steepest decline since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global mobility in 2020. Experts attribute this drop to multiple factors affecting both access and appeal of U.S. education.
Visa delays remain a key hurdle. Long backlogs and stricter scrutiny in student visa processing have slowed travel plans for thousands of aspiring Indian students. Safety concerns also weigh heavily, with rising reports of hate crimes and racial profiling influencing decisions.
High tuition fees and soaring housing costs in major U.S. cities further discourage potential applicants. Many students are seeking alternative destinations that offer more affordability and streamlined admission processes. Countries like Canada, Australia, and several European nations are witnessing a surge in applications from Indian students.
U.S. universities with significant South Asian enrollments are adjusting recruitment strategies. Institutions, particularly in STEM fields, are exploring hybrid programs and remote learning options to retain interest from international students. Indian education consultants report strong growth in inquiries for online and partially remote programs, reflecting a shift in student priorities.
The decline signals a broader trend in global student mobility. Universities worldwide are competing for talent while students weigh costs, safety, and flexibility in their decisions. Analysts expect U.S. institutions to review policies and support systems to regain India’s sizeable student base.
