Studying in the US Amid Political Shifts: What Indian Families Should Know — And How to Navigate It with Confidence

  By Pavni Sikand, Founder, The College Tribe

When Donald Trump first took office in 2016, I was an international student myself, pursuing my education in the U.S. I remember the unease that swept through campus almost overnight—uncertainty over visa rules, fears about employment opportunities, and a new tone in national politics that felt sharply different. Indian students, like many others, were worried: Would we still be welcome?

Nearly a decade later, Trump is back in the White House—and once again, Indian families are grappling with questions about safety, stability, and opportunity. As someone who’s now spent the last nine years working closely with students and families, I understand both sides of the experience: the emotional weight of navigating U.S. education during political change, and the steady, strategic work that ensures students continue to succeed—regardless of who's in office.

Politics Might Start the Fire—But Institutions Steady the Ship

Let’s be honest: Trump's return has reignited concerns from his previous term.​​ Stricter visa scrutiny, proposed changes to work authorization, and strong rhetoric around immigration are back in the headlines. These are valid concerns—and they deserve attention.

But if there's one thing my own experience taught me, it’s this: the U.S. system may start with instability, but it often settles into a kind of pragmatic equilibrium. During Trump’s first presidency, we saw protests, policy debates, and pushback—but we also saw resilience. Universities stepped up. Legal systems held the line. International students adjusted, adapted, and ultimately thrived. This time is no different.

Why Indian Students Matter More Than Ever

Indian students represent one of the largest and most dynamic international student populations in the United States. According to Open Doors data, over 268,000 Indian students studied in the U.S. in 2023 alone—accounting for nearly 25% of all international enrollments. They bring more than just tuition dollars (though international students do contribute over $40 billion annually to the U.S. economy). They bring skill, talent, diversity, and ambition.

From graduate researchers fueling innovation in AI labs, to undergraduates launching climate tech startups, to future doctors training in top medical schools—Indian students are not only beneficiaries of the U.S. education system, they are also key contributors to it.

And American universities know this. They recognize that international education is not a one-way street—it is a partnership that fuels their rankings, enriches campus life, and drives economic development. In an era where global competition for talent is fierce, shutting the door on Indian students simply isn’t in the U.S.’s best interest.

So, What Next?

At The College Tribe, our work is guided by both insight and empathy. Having lived through this landscape myself, and having guided over 250 students to top universities like Harvard, Stanford, Duke, Berkeley, UCL, and LSE, I know the importance of balancing realism with optimism.

Our mission has always been dual-purpose: helping students reach their dream schools while also nurturing them into thoughtful, well-rounded individuals. In politically uncertain times, that mission becomes even more vital.

So what can students and families do now?

• Plan with clarity. Apply early. Choose programs with strong post-graduate prospects. Focus on high-demand fields like data science, biotech, AI, public policy, and sustainability.
• Tell your story.S. applications are holistic. They reward depth, originality, and purpose. In a time of change, authenticity becomes your greatest strength.
• Explore parallel options. While the U.S. remains an excellent destination, countries like Europe, the UK, and Singapore offer complementary opportunities—with attractive post-study work pathways and growing Indian student communities.
• Stay informed—but don’t get overwhelmed. Every policy announcement doesn’t translate into practice overnight. Watch trends, not just tweets.

Looking Forward, Not Back

To today’s students, I say this: I’ve been where you are. I’ve felt the fear, watched the policies shift, and experienced the uncertainty firsthand. But I’ve also seen what happens when students stay focused, stay informed, and don’t let fear define their future.

I’ve seen students win full scholarships, launch startups, contribute to cutting-edge research, and build global careers—even during turbulent times.

I understand the hesitation. But I also believe in preparation over panic. Let’s equip our students not just to get into great colleges, but to succeed no matter what political weather comes their way.

The U.S. college dream may feel a little foggy today, but it’s far from fading. With strategy, sincerity, and support, it’s still very much within reach.

The College Tribe (https://thecollegetribe.com/)

Pavni Sikand (https://www.linkedin.com/in/pavni-sikand/)

+91 98100 91749