New Delhi: There has been a sharp decline in the number of Indian students going for higher education in America. There has been a decline of about 45 percent in the enrollment of Indian students in American universities in August 2025. This decline is not being considered as just a fluctuation in figures but is being linked to visa uncertainty, rising fees and expansion of global options. America has been the first choice of Indian students for a long time, but the current situation has changed this trend.
Has the visa process become the biggest hurdle?
Students and education consultants say the lack of visa interview slots and delays in the application process have scuppered the plans of many students. There are a large number of students who deposited advance amount to secure a seat in the university but could not take admission due to not getting the visa on time. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council, the organization that released the survey report, the presence of Indian applicants in many management and postgraduate programs has declined significantly compared to earlier. This atmosphere of uncertainty remains a cause of concern for both students and parents.
Did rising costs change the mathematics?
Studying in the United States has long been considered expensive, but tuition fees, housing, and insurance costs have increased steadily in recent years. The weakness of the Indian rupee against the dollar has further increased the total expenditure. It is not easy for middle class families to bear the additional burden of lakhs of rupees. Experts associated with the education sector believe that now students not only look at the ranking of the university but also assess the investment and potential returns. In such a situation, when costs increase and there is uncertainty over visas, the attractiveness of America automatically starts decreasing.
Is the trend increasing towards other countries?
Meanwhile, some countries in Europe, Australia and Asia have introduced relatively easy visa policies and affordable programs for international students. There have been reports of increase in applications in countries like Germany, Ireland and Singapore. Many universities are attracting students through scholarships and industry-related courses. Education consultants say that now students want less risk and more options. If the process in a country appears clear and transparent, then it becomes a priority.
Will American universities be affected?
Indian students have long been important to American universities, especially in science, technology, and management programs. Fees of foreign students form a major part of the institutions’ income. In such a situation, a sharp decline in admissions can also create financial pressure. Some universities have already started reviewing international recruitment strategies. Experts believe that if the visa process is not made simple and clear, this decline may continue in the coming years.
The overall picture shows that the global education landscape is changing. Indian students are no longer taking emotional decisions but are taking steps keeping in mind the concrete circumstances and future possibilities.
