How Many Indian Students Went to Study in the US in 2023-24?
The United States has long been a popular destination for students seeking higher education. In recent years, the country has seen a significant surge in the number of international students enrolling in its universities. In 2023-24, the US witnessed a record number of international students, with a staggering 3,31,602 Indian students making their way to the country to pursue their academic dreams. This number accounts for nearly 30% of all international students in the US, making India the top source country for international students in the country.
This influx of Indian students in the US is not a new phenomenon. Over the years, the US has been a preferred destination for Indian students due to its high-quality education system, diverse course offerings, and strong industry connections. Many Indian students aspire to study in the US due to its reputation for producing globally recognized degrees and its strong ties with the Indian industry.
The figures for 2023-24 are a testament to the growing popularity of the US as a study destination for Indian students. According to a recent report by the Institute of International Education (IIE), the number of Indian students in the US has been steadily increasing over the years. In 2019-20, there were 2,16,571 Indian students in the US, which rose to 2,79,044 in 2020-21. The numbers continued to rise in 2021-22, with 3,14,954 Indian students enrolling in US universities.
The rise in the number of Indian students in the US can be attributed to several factors. One of the primary reasons is the increasing demand for higher education in India. With the growing competition in the Indian job market, many students are opting for higher education to gain a competitive edge. The US offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including specialized courses in fields like technology, engineering, and healthcare.
Another factor contributing to the rise in Indian students in the US is the country’s strong academic reputation. The US is home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities, including Stanford, Harvard, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Many Indian students aspire to study at these institutions due to their reputation for producing highly skilled and employable graduates.
The US government has also taken steps to make it easier for international students to study in the country. In 2020, the US government introduced a new student visa policy, which allows international students to stay in the country for up to 60 days after completing their studies. This move has been welcomed by Indian students, who can now take their time to explore job opportunities in the US after completing their studies.
However, the growing number of Indian students in the US has also raised concerns about the impact on the country’s job market. The US government has been criticized for its handling of the issue, with some arguing that the country’s immigration policies are too restrictive. In response to these concerns, the US government has announced plans to introduce stricter visa regulations for foreign students.
In a recent development, the US government has paused new interviews for student-visa applicants globally, citing plans to require new foreign students to undergo social media vetting. This move has been criticized by many, who argue that it is a discriminatory move that targets international students. The Indian government has also expressed concerns over the issue, with the Indian Ministry of External Affairs stating that it is in touch with the US government to resolve the matter.
In conclusion, the number of Indian students in the US has seen a significant surge in recent years, with 3,31,602 Indian students making their way to the country in 2023-24. This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for higher education in India, the country’s strong academic reputation, and the US government’s efforts to make it easier for international students to study in the country. However, the growing number of Indian students in the US has also raised concerns about the impact on the country’s job market.
