Are Nearly 400,000 Students Enrolled Across Various Education Streams in the US?
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Synopsis
In light of evolving visa policies and security measures, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs reveals that nearly 400,000 Indian students are enrolled in various educational programs across the US. With recent changes impacting visa status and student rights, the situation remains complex and concerning.
Key Takeaways
- 372,424 Indian students are enrolled in the US.
- Visa issuance fluctuated from 20,628 to 143,811 in the last five years.
- New guidelines may affect visa status based on social activities.
- SEVIS terminations have caused significant distress among students.
- The Indian government is actively working to address these concerns.
New Delhi, July 25 (NationPress) In response to a non-listed Lok Sabha inquiry from MP Asaduddin Owaisi, the Ministry of External Affairs has addressed rising concerns about the treatment of Indian students in the United States due to evolving visa regulations and stricter security measures.
Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, stated that as of June 2025, there are 372,424 Indian nationals enrolled in a variety of educational programs in the US, encompassing primary, secondary, vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels. Over the past five academic years, the issuance of student visas to Indian nationals has varied significantly—from 20,628 in 2019–20 to a high of 143,811 in 2022–23, followed by a notable drop to 99,169 in 2023–24.
The Minister noted that in April 2025, many Indian students received sudden notifications regarding the termination of their SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records, leading to the automatic cancellation of their student visas. Some were even advised to self-deport to maintain options for future legal re-entry. Numerous students have challenged these decisions in US courts, alleging violations of due process. In early May, the US government reinstated thousands of visas in a partial policy reversal, providing temporary relief, yet concerns remain.
New guidelines could expand the grounds for visa revocation, potentially including involvement in political protests or activities viewed unfavorably by the administration. A June advisory from the US Embassy in New Delhi indicated that student visas are subject to post-approval monitoring. Violations such as class absences, traffic offenses, or even social activism could lead to visa cancellations and future travel restrictions.
Adding to the complexity, new screening measures announced on June 18 require applicants in F, M, and J categories to make their social media profiles publicly accessible for comprehensive vetting, presented as a national security necessity.
The Indian government, while honoring the United States' sovereign rights, continues to engage diplomatically to protect student interests. The Ministry reasserted its dedication to establishing secure and mutually beneficial mobility frameworks, alongside efforts to combat human trafficking and visa fraud.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the delicate balance between national interests and the rights of international students. The ongoing challenges faced by Indian students in the US underscore the need for a collaborative approach to ensure their safety and academic success. Maintaining an open dialogue is critical for fostering a supportive environment for these students.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indian students are currently enrolled in the US?
As of June 2025, there are approximately 372,424 Indian nationals enrolled across various educational streams in the US.
What recent changes have affected Indian students' visas?
Recent changes include abrupt notifications of SEVIS record terminations, which have led to the automatic revocation of student visas for numerous Indian students.
What are the implications of the new visa guidelines?
The new guidelines may broaden the grounds for visa revocations, including participation in political protests and require social media profile accessibility for vetting.
What actions are being taken by the Indian government?
The Indian government is engaging diplomatically with the US to safeguard the interests of its students while emphasizing the importance of secure mobility frameworks.
What is the significance of SEVIS?
SEVIS, or the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, is a system that maintains information on non-immigrant students and exchange visitors, crucial for their visa status.
