Indian students are flocking to the United States in record numbers for higher education, particularly in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), driven by globalization, abundant opportunities, and the support of a thriving Indian diaspora. According to education experts, the appeal lies not just in academic excellence but also in the professional pathways and cultural connections that studying in the US offers. 

Last year, India surpassed China as the top country of origin for international students in the US, with a record 331,602 Indian students enrolled in the 2023-2024 academic year. This represents a significant 23% increase from the previous year, highlighting the growing enthusiasm among Indian youth for pursuing higher education abroad. 

The surge in enrolments was particularly pronounced at the graduate and Optional Practical Training (OPT) levels. Graduate enrolments saw a 19% rise, with 196,567 Indian students participating. OPT, which allows international students on F-1 visas to gain work experience in their field of study, recorded a remarkable 41% increase, with 97,556 Indian students taking advantage of this opportunity. 

Marvin Krislov, President of Pace University, emphasized the role of the Indian-American community in making the US an attractive destination for Indian students. “There’s a large Indian-American community that is part of the attraction,” he said. He also pointed out that the US offers unparalleled opportunities, with many Indian students not only excelling academically but also building successful careers, often staying in the US for extended periods. 

The steady rise in Indian enrolments reflects the dynamic interplay of ambition and opportunity. For these students, the US represents not just a place to study but a gateway to innovation, global networks, and personal growth. This trend is reshaping the landscape of international education, solidifying the bond between India and the US in academia and beyond.