Washington: The growing appeal of quality education, vast opportunities in the US, and a strong Indian diaspora are key factors attracting Indian students to American universities, particularly for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs, according to education experts.
Marvin Krislov, President of Pace University, highlighted the enthusiasm of Indian students and the promising opportunities in the US as significant factors in this trend.
"The growth of Indian youth and their drive for education align perfectly with the opportunities in the United States," Marvin Krislov told PTI.
India Surpasses China By Recording 3,31,602 Indian Student In The US, Says Report
According to the latest International Educational Exchange report, India surpassed China as the leading source of international students in the US during the 2023-2024 academic year, with a record 3,31,602 Indian students. This marks a 23 percent increase from the previous year, with notable growth in graduate programs (+19%) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) participation (+41%).
OPT allows F-1 international students to gain work experience in their field of study. Illinois Tech President Raj Echambadi attributed this trend to the high quality of Indian students and their strong undergraduate foundation, particularly in STEM fields. “Roughly 60 percent of the 3,30,000 Indian students in the US are in graduate programs, reflecting their preparedness and compatibility with US education systems,” he explained.
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He added that geopolitical factors also play a role, with the strong relationship between India and the US contrasting with China's. This has contributed to the growing preference for the US over other destinations like Australia, the UK, and Canada. Indian students at Illinois Tech have tripled in the past five years, now exceeding 2,000. Similarly, Pace University hosts over 2,000 Indian students, with Krislov emphasizing their importance to the campus community.
Both institutions are fostering collaborations with Indian universities, such as O.P. Jindal Global University, to promote mutual exchanges. Marvin Krislov noted that such partnerships enhance global learning experiences and open avenues for joint research and collaboration. The US remains a preferred destination for Indian students seeking global exposure and quality education. “Indian students benefit immensely, gaining access to top-notch educational resources and career opportunities that propel them forward,” Raj Echambadi said.
Source- PTI
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