The American dream is facing a harsh reality check for Indian students, with a top education consultant cautioning that securing jobs in the U.S. will be increasingly difficult. Several factors are converging to create a challenging landscape for international graduates, impacting their prospects and forcing many to reassess their plans.
One of the primary concerns is the tightening U.S. job market. Hiring freezes and layoffs, particularly in the tech sector—a traditional stronghold for Indian graduates—are becoming more frequent due to recession fears and the rise of AI automation. Entry-level positions are dwindling as AI tools take over tasks previously handled by fresh graduates, reducing opportunities for newcomers. Anshuman Das, CEO of Careernet Group, notes a surge in resumes from Indian students struggling to find employment, even in coding jobs.
Adding to the woes, stricter immigration policies and visa uncertainties are creating a climate of anxiety. Reports indicate an increase in student visa revocations, sometimes for minor infractions, and proposed legislation threatens to dismantle the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The OPT program allows international graduates, especially in STEM fields, to gain work experience for up to three years and serves as a crucial stepping stone to H-1B visas or permanent residency. The decline in H-1B visa approval rates, coupled with increased scrutiny of visa applicants' social media content, further complicates the path for Indian students.
The financial burden of studying in the U.S. is also a significant concern. Many students take out substantial loans to finance their education, hoping to secure high-paying jobs to repay their debts. However, with limited access to financial aid and restrictions on part-time employment, they face mounting financial pressure. The prospect of returning home without a job exacerbates these concerns, leaving students with significant debt and dashed hopes.
In response to these challenges, Indian students are exploring alternative strategies to extend their stay and improve their job prospects. Some affluent families are funding EB-5 visas, which grant permanent residence rights, while others are enrolling in additional programs or seeking short-term gigs. Micro-internships, remote freelance work, and aggressive networking are also becoming popular options. Adarsh Khandelwal, cofounder of Collegify, suggests students consider second master's degrees or graduate certificates in fields like AI, data science, public policy, or healthcare analytics, which remain in high demand.
Despite the difficulties, the desire to study in the U.S. remains strong, particularly in STEM fields and AI-related programs. The U.S. continues to attract ambitious minds with its unmatched research environments, global exposure, and access to leading-edge industries. However, experts advise students to be cautious and well-prepared. Starting the job hunt from day one, building a strong online presence, and understanding the U.S. job ecosystem are crucial for success.
Rajesh Sawhney, a Harvard Business School alumnus and entrepreneur, cautions that the "shortcut" of obtaining a foreign degree for a high-paying job no longer works. He advises parents to think twice before investing heavily in overseas education, as job opportunities in the U.S., UK, and Canada are diminishing for international graduates.
The situation demands a pragmatic approach. While the U.S. remains a desirable destination for higher education, Indian students must be aware of the challenges and prepare accordingly. Diversifying skills, exploring alternative career paths, and understanding the evolving job market are essential for navigating the complexities and maximizing their chances of success. The American dream may still be attainable, but it requires a more strategic and realistic approach in the current environment.
