Amid H-1B visa debate, why US continues to dominate Indian students study abroad plans

This discussion started as an online spat between Elon Musk and other right wing supporters in the US over H-1B visas. During the spat, President-elect Donald Trump spoke in favour of the visa, claiming he has “always liked the visas”. Trump’s statement particularly caught the public eye as immigration is one of the most polarising political issues in the US.

Data from the US government show that Indians account for more than 70% of all H-1B petitions approved each year since 2015. However, Trump’s statement can attract more Indians now as the US has long been a preferred destination for students pursuing higher education abroad, and for Indian students, it remains a top choice due to its world-class universities, diverse academic offerings, and promising career opportunities.

As we look ahead to 2025, several key trends in US college admissions are shaping the landscape for international students, including Indian applicants. From evolving selection criteria and the impact of test-optional policies to new strategies for enhancing admission prospects, this article delves into the factors that Indian students need to consider to strengthen their chances of securing a spot at top US institutions.

US remains one of the top study abroad destinations

According to the Open Doors Report 2024, published annually by the US Department of State, the United States continues to be one of the leading destinations for international students. As of the 2023-2024 academic year, over 1.1 million international students were enrolled in US institutions, with Indian students accounting for a significant share of this number. India ranks first in terms of international student enrollment in the US, with a 35 per cent increase in Indian students.

The report highlights several key factors that contribute to the US’ status as a top study destination. These include the diverse range of academic programmes, access to cutting-edge research opportunities, a multicultural environment, and strong career prospects post-graduation. Furthermore, the ongoing trend of international collaboration and the increasing number of global students seeking education in the US indicate that this trend is likely to continue into 2025 and beyond.

Evolving selection criteria: Holistic admissions

One of the most notable trends in US college admissions is the shift towards holistic review processes. While standardised tests such as the SAT and ACT were once a central component of college applications, many US colleges and universities have moved towards a more comprehensive evaluation model. This approach takes into account a student’s entire application — academic performance, extracurricular activities, essays, recommendation letters, and personal background — rather than just focusing on test scores.

For Indian students, this shift means that grades alone will not determine their admission chances. While academic excellence remains important, institutions are increasingly looking for well-rounded students who have demonstrated leadership, initiative, and a commitment to community service. Indian applicants should focus on building a strong portfolio of extracurricular activities, internships, volunteer work, and other initiatives that showcase their skills, creativity, and passion outside the classroom.

Test-optional policies

The test-optional movement, which gained momentum during the Covid-19 pandemic, continues to influence the US college admissions process. Many top America universities, including prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, have adopted test-optional policies, allowing applicants to choose whether or not to submit standardised test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT). This shift provides Indian students with greater flexibility and allows them to focus on other aspects of their applications, such as essays and extracurricular achievements.

However, it is important to note that some universities still require standardised test scores, especially for certain programmes or scholarships. For Indian students, who often face challenges in securing high SAT or ACT scores due to a competitive environment or limited test preparation resources, test-optional policies offer an opportunity to showcase their abilities through other means.

For those considering submitting test scores, it is crucial to aim for scores that align with the average accepted scores at the target institutions. However, if test scores are not a strong point, focusing on other components of the application — such as a compelling personal statement, strong letters of recommendation, and exceptional achievements in extracurricular activities — can help improve the chances of admission.

Rising popularity of STEM programmes

Indian students have historically shown strong interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programmes, and this trend continues in 2025. The demand for STEM graduates, especially in fields like computer science, engineering, and data analytics, remains high both in the US and globally.

The Open Doors Report reveals that over 50 per cent of international students in the US are enrolled in STEM fields, with Indian students being a significant contributor to this percentage. American universities offer numerous opportunities for STEM students, including research positions, internships, and employment after graduation, which makes them an attractive option for Indian students pursuing technical careers.

In response to this demand, many US universities are expanding their STEM offerings and even creating pathways for students to transition from undergraduate to graduate studies in these fields. Indian students who are applying to STEM programmes should ensure they have a strong academic record, relevant coursework, and hands-on experience through internships or research projects to improve their prospects.

Strategic application: Leveraging early decision and early action

For students aiming to secure admission to highly competitive US institutions, applying through Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) can significantly increase their chances. These admission plans allow students to submit their applications earlier than the regular deadline, often with results coming out in December. While Early Decision is binding, Early Action is non-binding, offering students a chance to apply early without committing to the school if admitted.

Indian students interested in top-tier institutions should consider applying through these options to demonstrate their strong interest in a university and improve their chances of acceptance. However, it is important to research each university’s policies and deadlines carefully to ensure that their application aligns with the institution’s expectations.

As US college admissions evolve, Indian students must stay informed about the changing trends and strategically plan their applications to enhance their chances of success. With a focus on holistic admissions, test-optional policies, and the growing demand for STEM graduates, the key to standing out in 2025 will be a well-rounded, personalized approach to the application process. By showcasing academic excellence, strong extracurricular involvement, and relevant skills, Indian students can maximise their potential and make a lasting impression on American universities, ensuring that they continue to thrive in the competitive global education landscape.

(The writer is the founder and director of Career Mosaic)