US Emerges as Top STEM Destination for Indian Students Despite Visa and Geopolitical Challenges

STEM in the US has emerged as a resilient arena in the international education ecosystem. Even at the time when geopolitical noise is at its peak. The statement was reinforced at the launch of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in India.

For every generation of Indian students, the US continues to be a pinnacle of education. But this unquestionable stronghold destination comes with a cost. This risk-reward equation still failed to stop Indian students from choosing the USA to study abroad. As global discussions around:

• Immigration
• Visas 
• Geopolitics 

Are creating uncertainty. But does this volatility paralyse students who wish to study in the US? No. Students cling to the USA nonetheless. Many senior education leaders highlighted this reality at a higher education event in India. For students from engineering and technology fields, the USA manages to apply a gravitational pull.

To welcome Indian students, US universities offer fully funded scholarships

US Welcomes Genuine STEM Students, Say Education Leaders

“International students who dream of legitimate academic goals at recognised institutions are welcomed and supported in the United States,” said Jarron Decker (Director of Graduate Admissions at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute).

He emphasised that students at the graduation level are important to RPI. They contribute to: 

• Innovation
• Knowledge creation
• Industry-linked research

A lot of negative global headlines around immigration cloud the study of the US dream. At a time like this, these initiatives work as an allure. US universities lead in THE World University Ranking 2026.

RPI Launch in India Signals Long-Term Commitment

RPI’s launch is a stage for academic ties between India and USA. InUni’s university partnership also plays a big role.

Why this matters for students:

• Access to a globally ranked STEM university
• Focus on engineering in USA, computing, science and management
• Collaboration between Indian students and US research institutions

Perception vs Reality: What’s Actually Happening on Ground

Blerina Polovina (Associate Vice President at InUni Global) said that the strength of US graduate education comes from:

• Concentration of top-ranked STEM universities
• Research funding
• Strong industry linkages

US remains a top choice for engineering, computing, science, architecture, and management students.

Survey: 91% International Students Still Plan to Study in the US

A Pioneer Academics survey shows that from a sample size of 303 students, 91% choose to study in US. This enduring appeal has been seen particularly in STEM students. Despite the ongoing tension, most students are okay with manageable risks and do not consider them deal-breakers.

However, enrollments witness impacts:

Visa Delays Impact Numbers, Not Aspirations

Visa-related bottlenecks are affecting enrolments, but not outweigh the promise of academic prestige and opportunity.

• F-1 visas issued to Indians fell 44% in H1 2025.
• However, students still see a pull.

Indian Students Still Lead, Despite Short-Term Challenges

India sends the largest number of international students to the US. Over 330,000 students enrolled last year. Students who complete engineering in US prefer the US for employability.

Bottom Line: US Still a Top Choice for STEM Aspirants

US is the top destination for students planning to study in USA. STEM and engineering courses in US are especially attractive.

Students who wish to fly to US for their educational journey should:

• Prepare well
• Stay informed
• Don’t let short-term uncertainty derail long-term ambitions

Frequently Asked Questions

Ques: Can Indians study in the USA?

Yes. Indian students can take admission in US. Moreover, India leads when it comes to the highest number of international students enrolled in USA. But you must fulfill some eligibility criteria to get into:

• English language proficiency
• Academic qualification
  ,

Ques: Are fully funded scholarships in the US available for Indian students?

Ans: Yes. These scholarships are available for Indian students too. But first, students must meet the prescribed eligibility criteria.