The US administration under Donald Trump has ordered embassies to stop scheduling new appointments for student visas, as it prepares to implement a new social media screening process for all international applicants. While existing appointments are expected to go ahead as planned, Singh believes this year’s visa approvals will be “significantly lower” than last year, with no indication of additional slots being opened up.
In this backdrop, Singh said the current moment presents an opportunity for deeper India-US university collaboration. “Under India’s new education policy, we allow foreign universities to set up campuses or form partnerships with Indian universities. This might be a good time for Indian institutions to explore partnerships with US universities,” he said, adding that this could help ease the pressure on students who wish to pursue a US-style education.He also pointed out that other countries like the UK, Germany, France, Australia and Ireland stand to benefit as viable alternatives for Indian students. He noted that India and the UK recently signed a free trade agreement that includes provisions for student mobility.
Singh also warned students to be mindful of their digital presence, as social media vetting is already a part of the US visa process. Applicants are required to submit their social media handles, and this scrutiny is likely to become more intensive. “Students must factor in how their digital profile aligns with US norms,” he said.
Describing the current situation as unlike previous years, Singh said the unpredictability of the US visa process complicates student planning. Previously, special visa slots were carved out for students, but this time around, there’s no such assurance.
Beyond the administrative delays, Singh also raised concerns about the changing campus environment in the US. Referring to the student-led protests over global issues like the conflict in Gaza, he said universities are now under pressure to curb such expressions, with some facing penalties and loss of grants. “Students need to factor in what kind of learning and campus experience they expect if they go to the United States,” he said, suggesting that the traditional image of American universities as bastions of free speech may no longer hold.
Despite the challenges, Singh acknowledged the continuing strengths of the US education system, particularly in science and technology. He also highlighted the contribution of Indian alumni to the India-US relationship, saying they have helped build strong business and diplomatic ties over the years.
Foreign students contribute over $45 billion annually to the US economy and support over 3,00,000 jobs. Singh described them as a “very important source of revenue, particularly for universities,” which charge international students much higher tuition fees.
Indian students currently make up 30% of the total international student population in the US. As visa uncertainty looms, Singh’s message is clear: don’t rely solely on the US—have a backup.
