Indian students in US are rising, but not really: What is happening to the American Dream?

The US continues to attract international students, with the total reaching 1.17 million in 2024-25. However, the 7% fall in first-time enrolments signals growing uncertainty around costs, jobs, visas and immigration. While Indian student numbers rose 10%, rising OPT participation highlights how post-study employment and immigration pathways are increasingly shaping decisions about studying in America.