Inside American dreams: what Indian students are studying and what attracts them

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India sent over 331,000 students to the US in 2023-24, but recent visa policy changes under Trump have created uncertainty about their educational future.

Indian students hit a record 331,602 in the US in 2023-24, contributing $ 11.8 billion to the US economy. (AI produced image)

Indian students hit a record 331,602 in the US in 2023-24, contributing $ 11.8 billion to the US economy. (AI produced image)

In the 2023–2024 academic year, India sent over 331,000 students to study in the US. However, US President Donald Trump’s recent decision to suspend the visa interview for foreign nationals has created widespread uncertainty, which tells many Indian students about the future of their educational activities.

Recently, US President Donald Trump defended his decision to limit foreign students entry, even criticized Harvard University, which he called “troubled behavior” and its large amounts of federal funding.

Donald Trump said that his administration still welcomes international students- but not those who are “causing trouble.” He said, “We want great students here. We do not just want students who are causing trouble. I want foreign students here.”

Field of studyPercentage of Indian students
Business / management11.2%
Education0.2%
Engineering24.5%
Fine / applied arts1.3%
Health business2.7%
Humanities0.4%
Intensive English0.3%
Mathematics / Computer Science42.9%
Physical / Life Science5.4%
Social science2.2%
Other areas of study8.3%
Not thought before0.5%
Total students331,602

But what does Indian students drive to choose STEM courses and study abroad? And why is America its top destination?

Speaking to AyraNews24x7.com, Sachin Jain, country manager of ETS India and South Asia, explained, “The United States is one of the top sites for Indian students, especially in future future areas such as computer science, engineering, AI, data science and management.”

He said, “Around 70% of Indian students in the US are chasing STEM degrees. This preference is inspired by global demand for technical and innovation-led skills, world-class research infrastructure and structured post-study work opportunities.

Also read: Studies abroad: 25% of Indians can avoid America, experts say Ireland, Germany and Japan are watching Serge

For students such as Rishabh (name changed at request), currently studying in California Institute of Technology (Caltech), the decision to transfer was more and more operated than university rankings.

“I chose America due to my state-of-the-art research, global faculty and strong industry linkage. It is not only about textbooks-I work on real-world projects and have access to laboratories that address some of the most challenges in the world. Culture here encourages innovation and important thinking. It is actually shaping me in a global problem.”

Mekmi Gurung, a student in the Master of Advanced Management Program of Yale University, shared a similar sense.

“Studying in America was a dream that turned into a plan. Academic flexibility, coming in contact with diverse cultures, and access to the technical ecosystem make it the best place to grow. I just wanted more than one degree – I wanted experience, innovation and a global mindset. What is the best version of myself what American education pushes you,” he said.

Also read: Studies abroad: 25% of Indians can avoid America, experts say Ireland, Germany and Japan are watching Serge

Despite policy changes, experts remain optimistic

According to the Open Doors Student Mobility Facts and Figure 2024, most Indian students (64.5%) were nominated in public institutions in 2023, while 35.5% participated in private universities. The contribution of Indian students to the US economy in 2023 was important, according to the International Student Economic Impact 2023, produced $ 11.8 billion.

Although recent American policy changes can cause short -term uncertainty, education experts remain optimistic about the long -term approach to international studies. They recommend students to be informed, globally think and choose educational paths that align with their career’s ambitions and financial plans.

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Archit Gupta

Archit Gupta is a chief sub-editor on AyraNews24x7.com and is an experienced education journalist who specializes in reporting on education and employment. He has covered various types of education -related stories, of which high -…Read more

Archit Gupta is a chief sub-editor on AyraNews24x7.com and is an experienced education journalist who specializes in reporting on education and employment. He has covered various types of education -related stories, of which high -… Read more

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