How Many Indian Students Are Studying in the USA?

For the first time since 1919, India has surpassed China as the largest source country of international students in the US! According to the Open Doors Report 2024, over 3.3 lakh Indian students are studying in the United States, marking a 23% increase from the previous academic year.

This surge is driven by higher education opportunities, student visa approvals, and Optional Practical Training (OPT). With top US universities attracting record numbers of undergraduate and graduate students from India, the US remains the top study destination for Indian students wishing to study abroad

Why Do Indian Students Prefer the USA for Higher Education?

The United States remains the top study destination for Indian students. But why do so many students from India choose the US for higher education abroad?

The reasons go beyond just academics. Here’s why Indian students studying in the United States continue to rise:

1. World-Class Universities and Research Opportunities

The US is home to top universities like MIT, Harvard, and Stanford, offering cutting-edge research and academic flexibility. Indian students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, innovative coursework, and access to global faculty and industry experts.

2. Career and Employment Opportunities

With programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) and H-1B visa pathways, the US provides Indian students with post-study work opportunities. Many foreign students secure jobs in leading tech firms and Fortune 500 companies, making the US a lucrative study destination.

3. Strong Indian Student Community and Cultural Diversity

Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago host a large Indian diaspora, creating a welcoming environment. Students coming from Delhi, Mumbai, and across India find support through student associations, networking events, and cultural programs.

4. Financial Aid and Scholarships for Indian Students

Many Indian students studying in the U.S receive merit-based scholarships for international students, research grants, and assistantships from universities, reducing the financial burden. The US Embassy and EducationUSA India also guide prospective students on funding options.

5. Flexibility in Education and Academic Excellence

Unlike Indian universities, US institutions offer flexible programs, allowing students to explore interdisciplinary studies and change majors. This adaptability attracts undergraduate and graduate students looking for diverse career pathways.

10 Top US Universities for Indian Students

The country’s world-class universities, cutting-edge research, and post-study work opportunities make it the top destination for higher education abroad.

Here’s a list of the best US universities for Indian students, along with key details on top courses, tuition fees, expected salaries, and required exams.

University	Top Courses	Average Tuition Fees (per year)	Average Salary (Post-Graduation)	Exams Required
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science	$57,000	$120,000	GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, SAT
Stanford University	AI & ML, Business, Biomedical Engineering	$58,000	$125,000	GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, SAT
Harvard University	Law, MBA, Economics, Public Policy	$55,000	$130,000	GRE, GMAT, LSAT, TOEFL, IELTS
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)	Data Science, Robotics, Finance	$48,000	$110,000	GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)	Computer Science, AI, Cybersecurity	$53,000	$115,000	GRE, TOEFL, IELTS
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)	Engineering, Physics, Business Analytics	$40,000	$100,000	GRE, TOEFL, IELTS
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor	Mechanical Engineering, AI, Business	$52,000	$105,000	GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS
University of Southern California (USC)	Film, Engineering, Entrepreneurship	$58,000	$110,000	GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS
New York University (NYU)	Finance, Data Science, Media Studies	$58,500	$108,000	GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS
Columbia University	Business, Law, Journalism	$62,000	$120,000	GRE, GMAT, LSAT, TOEFL, IELTS

What are the Admission Process for International Students in the USA?

The United States remains the top choice for Indian students pursuing higher education, with a record number of Indian students studying abroad in 2023-24. According to the Institute of International Education’s annual statistical survey on international students, India surpassed China as the largest international student source since its founding in 1919.

With the growth in Indian students, prospective students seeking opportunities in the US must navigate a structured admission process to study at top universities.

1. Research and Shortlist Universities

The total international student population in the US is spread across higher education institutions offering diverse programs. Students must compare programs, faculty, career opportunities, and funding options to finalize a list of top universities.

2. Meet Admission Requirements & Standardized Tests

Undergraduate students need SAT/ACT scores, while graduate students require GRE/GMAT. Medical students and those applying for specialized programs may need additional entrance tests like MCAT. English proficiency tests (TOEFL/IELTS) are mandatory for most international students from India.

3. Application Submission

Applications are submitted through portals like Common App (for undergraduates) and university websites for graduate programs. Required documents include academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOPs), Letter of Recommendation (LORs), and financial proof.

4. Receive Admission Decision & Apply for Study Visas

Once admitted, students receive an I-20 form, required for study visas. The US Embassy and consulates in India process F1 visa applications for students studying in the U.S..

5. Student Enrollment and Departure to the US

Students issued to Indian students must attend a visa interview at the consulates in India. After securing a visa, students must complete student enrollment before departing to the US.

Challenges Faced by Indian Students in the USA

With the number of students from India at an all-time high, the United States remains a top destination for international education. According to the Institute of International Education, the number of Indian graduate students has significantly increased, with Indian students abroad making up 23 per cent of the origin for international students in the US. However, despite the opportunities, students in the United States face several challenges.

1. Financial Struggles and High Tuition Fees

International students in the united face higher tuition fees than domestic students. Limited scholarships and expensive living costs in major cities make it difficult for eligible students to sustain themselves.

2. Visa and Immigration Challenges

The US for 2023-24 academic year saw a rise in student visa approvals, but many students to America struggle with complex visa regulations and work restrictions. Maintaining visa status while balancing studies and work can be stressful.

3. Cultural and Social Adjustments

Students in the U.S. often experience cultural differences, affecting their adaptation. Female students may face additional cultural and safety concerns.

4. Academic Pressure and Competitive Environment

The number of Indian graduate students has increased, leading to a highly competitive environment. Adjusting to the education system, which differs from Indian universities, is challenging among Indian students.

5. Job Market and Post-Study Uncertainty

Despite being a major source of international students, many international graduate students face work permit and job search difficulties. Compared to three years ago, the job security stability has become more competitive, making it harder for students to secure employment.

Conclusion

With India surpassing China as the largest source of international students in the United States, the number of Indian students studying in the USA has reached an all-time high in 2024. The US remains the top choice for Indian students due to its world-class education, career opportunities, and research excellence. However, navigating admissions, visas, and scholarships can be overwhelming.

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