Experts Speak: Will Trump's Presidency Hinder Indian Students' Dream of Studying in USA?

Ever since Donald Trump is the president-elect of the United States of America, there has been a lot skepticism for Indian students and their parents about choosing USA as their higher education destination.

Trump's thoughts on immigration during his candidacy campaigns has left many aspiring Indian students confused of higher education in the US this year.

Indian students make-up about 16% of the total international students in the US only next to Chinese, forming the second largest ethnic group. The 2015-16 academic year saw a 25% increase in Indian students enrolling to US universities. Indian students alone contribute over $5 billion to the US economy.

Academics fear there could be a steep decline in international students enrolling in US universities in the wake of Trump being elected president . However, deadlines for applications are generally in January and February and college admissions officials in the United States say it is too early to draw conclusions.

We here have for you valuable inputs from two study abroad consultants. Let us see what they have to say about Trump's presidency and its effect on international students aspiring to study in usa.

Quotes from MR. ADARSH KHANDELWAL, co founder, Collegify, a college consulting firm for study abroad

"Trump has never spoken ill of India. Recently, he said, "If I am elected president, the Indian and Hindu community will have a big friend in the White House." He also described himself as a "big fan of India". So, despite immense speculation about the impact of Trump's victory on Indians studying and even seeking jobs in the US, I personally feel there is no reason to worry.

The higher education industry is a trillion dollar business that contributes to the US economy to a great extent. Moreover, every year, the number of international students applying to the US is only increasing with students from India occupying an important spot on the list.

As per the Open Doors Report 2014 published by the Institute of International Education, the number of Indian students in the US for the academic year of 2013-2014 increased by 6%. I do not foresee any change in trends or statistics.

Trump has been in favour of India as he has mentioned multiple times about his friendly relations with Indian community. There will be a lot of speculation all around regarding admissions as well as job opportunities but there is no reason to worry.

Higher education is a trillion dollar business for the American economy and India is the second highest in terms of sending students there. They need us more than we need them. Be rest assured things won't change for us.

Educational background of President-elect of the US - Donald Trump

Quotes from Vibha Kagzi, ReachIvy, a college consulting firm for study abroad

1. Will Trump's viewpoints on anti-immigration affect student mobility to the United States?

The transition team from the Trump administration recently announced a 10-point plan to "restore the integrity" of the US immigration system that includes suspending the issuance of visas to any place where adequate screening cannot occur.

Student visas are granted only upon detailed scrutiny from the US consulate. Given that the current screening process is already rigorous, we doubt that these policy changes will affect any students who are going to the USA to study at an accredited university with legitimate acceptance documents.

2. Will it become more difficult for students to find job opportunities after graduation in the US?

Mr. Trump has been extremely vocal about immigration policy during his campaign and how he wishes to curb the inflow of immigrants. On the other hand, he has been all praises for the Indian community and is keen on inviting Indians into the country.

The 'Trump Transition Plan' talks about reforming the legal immigration system. "Reform legal immigration to serve the best interests of America and its workers," it said, without giving any further details. No mention of H-1B visas was made. At this point, job potential for Indians post graduation in the US remains unchanged.

3. Will there be any important changes in student visa and immigration policies?

Trump announced over the weekend "I'm going to bring this country together." The people of the US and the world are still coming to terms with the election results, and we believe things will soon calm down. His recent words indicate that he will build an inclusive economy for the betterment and growth of America.

For students who are still apprehensive and looking to start college in Fall 2017, we recommend keeping all your options open and then make an informed decision in April / May 2017. Broaden your schools to include other geographies like Canada, Asia, and Europe and make an informed decision closer to your departure time.

About Collegify:

Collegify was founded in 2012, and has since evolved into a multinational educational consulting firm, with the vision that in education lies the power to unlock potential in every individual and move towards a better society. Collegify comprises a team of young, passionate educationists and innovators. Their mentors are trained from top universities, and possess degrees and teaching experience from top universities globally. They combine experience as applicants, students, working professionals, admissions officers and professors, to bring the best possible team of college consultants. For further information visit, www.collegify.com

About ReachIvy:

ReachIvy is a premium education and careers advisory. Avail of our expertise across - Study Abroad, Career Guidance and Free Resources. Their study abroad consultants and career guidance coaches help aspiring students get accepted into Ivy League and other top ranked schools globally, and reach their career aspirations through personal mentoring, online services and a wealth of knowledge accumulated over years of experience. For further information, visit www.reachivy.com