Short Description
As Indian students increasingly turn away from U.S. universities, Fareed Zakaria warns of a significant economic impact, shifting the landscape of global education.
Read Time
Approximately 4 minutes.
Main Article
The pursuit of the American Dream has long been integral to many Indian families, with higher education in the U.S. serving as a pivotal gateway. However, recent analysis by Indian-origin journalist Fareed Zakaria suggests that this dream is slipping away. He asserts that a noticeable shift is occurring, with many Indian students reconsidering their educational destinations, resulting in a potential loss of $40-50 billion for the U.S. economy.
Since the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term in 2025, broader changes have made the U.S. less attractive for Indian students. Heightened H-1B visa fees and stringent monitoring of social media accounts have contributed to a climate perceived as unwelcoming. According to Zakaria, the number of Indian students enrolling in U.S. universities has dramatically decreased, marking what he calls a “structural shift” rather than a temporary occurrence. This sentiment is echoed by reports indicating a 10% drop in Indian graduate enrollments and a troubling 44% decline in F-1 visas issued in the first half of 2025.
As Indian students explore alternative options, countries such as Canada, Australia, and Germany have emerged as appealing educational alternatives. Zakaria highlights that higher education in these countries often comes at a fraction of the cost compared to American institutions. The allure of low tuition fees, coupled with robust post-study work opportunities, has led to a surge in Indian enrollments in these regions. Germany’s appeal has doubled its intake to 9% in 2025, while the U.K. has astonishingly captured 39% of Indian students, experiencing a 143% increase.
Zakaria argues that the long-held belief in the supremacy of U.S. education—the “halo effect”—is rapidly diminishing. He notes that American universities once benefited from the idea that any institution within the U.S. was an automatic choice for international students. However, as more students recognize viable alternatives, that concept is losing traction. The decline in Indian student enrollment is not just an academic issue; it affects U.S. higher education’s financial landscape and its global influence.
In summary, Indian-origin journalist Fareed Zakaria’s insights reveal critical factors driving Indian students away from the U.S. for higher education. The pervasive belief that American universities are inherently superior is waning, resulting in significant financial implications for the country.
Short Summary
Fareed Zakaria warns that declining interest from Indian students poses a substantial risk to U.S. universities, potentially costing the economy up to $50 billion. As students seek more affordable, quality education abroad, alternative markets are rapidly gaining traction, shaping the future of global education.
