The victory of Donald Trump in the American presidential elections has created a concern for Indian students studying in the US or those dreaming to enrol in an American institute for further study. The reason behind this speculation is his last term as president of the USA when he advocated stricter visa norms and immigration policies. His protectionist policies created challenges for Indian students.
During the recently concluded elections, matters related to immigration were the focus of the Trump campaign. However, his campaigns and speeches were pro-immigration. He assured support to international students while hinting that his administration would not tolerate illegal immigration, giving hope to Indians who usually adopt legal routes.
Key concerns
There is pro-student sentiment, however, some concerns remain.
- Focus on STEM Programs: Though it’s a good sign for students aiming to pursue STEM courses, it’s not good for other streams. A majority of students go to the US to pursue arts and humanities subjects. The administration’s focus on STEM subjects could impact the dreams of humanities students.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) Program: In his previous term, the Trump administration proposed to discontinue the OPT program and created uncertainty among Indian students. However, the decision was revoked later. The OPT program allows students to work in the US after completing their studies for up to a year. If his administration reintroduced the proposal, this could have a bigger impact on students.
- H-1B Visa Restrictions: In the previous term, the Trump government tightened norms for H-1B visas and rejected numerous applications. The H-1B visa works as a key gateway for Indian students for post-graduation employment. Tight norms may result in visa delays and higher rejections.
- Impact on Family Visa: The Trump government may revive its first-term proposal of introducing a points-based system, which is followed in Canada and Australia. This would have a critical implication for the US family-based system and family visa. This will impact students and their families willing to shift to the US.
- Visa Delay: Heightened monitoring and stricter norms may cause a delay in getting a visa. Visa wait time was reduced from 1000 days to 250 days last year. However, a change in rules and procedures by the Trump government may cause a delay.
New Opportunities
The approach and decisions of the new Trump government may also provide fresh opportunities to students.
- Focus on Talent: Trump’s election campaigns have hinted that the government will prioritize talent and make paths easier for them. For instance, STEM students will find it easier to get entry into the US and find jobs.
- Deportation of Illegal Immigrants: President Trump is firm on deporting illegal migrants, accounting for an estimated 10 million people. This is seen as an opportunity for Indians who opt for legal pathways.
- Automatic Green Card: Trump supported the immigration of international students and promised to offer automatic green cards to international students. The government will ensure these cards are provided to talented individuals only.
Such changes would open doors for myriad fresh opportunities for talented Indians. They must focus on enhancing their skills and subject knowledge.
Indian Students in the US
- The USA is among the most preferred study-abroad destinations for Indian students. They are the second largest community in the US, accounting for around 28% of the total students’ enrolment from foreign countries. In 2023, 4 lakh Indian students went to the US to pursue their dream courses.
- Over 4,000 educational institutions in the US offer unique opportunities to students from across the globe to pursue courses that give international exposure while promising good career prospects.
- High-quality education, better career opportunities, and a better lifestyle are the key factors why Indian students prefer the US over other foreign destinations.
- There are speculations that the growing desire among Indian students and parents for a US degree will result in an increase in applications.
The Indian community plays an instrumental role in the US economy. With their exceptional skills across domains, they propel the nation’s growth. The Trump administration is expected to adopt a balanced approach while amending rules and regulations so that the process becomes easier for talented Indians.
