Tougher US Stay Rules To Affect Indian Students

Hyderabad: The Donald Trump administration's decision to end the "duration of status" (D/S) system for international students and exchange visitors has raised concerns among Indian students planning to pursue higher education in America.

India is one of the largest sources of international students in the US, with hundreds of thousands enrolled in universities across the country. Under the new rules, students will be granted a fixed period of stay, generally limited to the duration of their academic programme and capped at four years. Students who need additional time to complete their studies will have to apply for extensions through US immigration authorities.

Education experts say the changes could particularly affect students pursuing doctoral programmes, research-based courses and other programmes that often take longer than four years to complete.

Aarthi Mukherjee, a Hyderabad-based postgraduate student, said, "I was planning to apply for a PhD in computer science next year in California. Most PhD programmes take five to six years. The new rules make me worried about having to apply for extensions, whether there could be delays or even rejections. What can I do if my extension is rejected midway through my PhD?"

Rahul, another student who is currently pursuing a Master's programme in the United States, said he wanted to pursue an MBA after completing his current course. “I thought I could enrol in my own university for an MBA course, and pursue my dream. Judging by the current documentation from DHS, I might have to go back home, reapply for a visa and courses, and come back again. All of this additional paperwork, fees and delays will create stress for my family and me," he said.

Study consultants have reported growing concern among prospective applicants, who want clarification on how the new regulations will affect their long-term academic plans.

Dinesh M., a consultant from Hyderabad, said, "The US remains a highly attractive destination for Indian students because of its universities, research opportunities and job prospects. However, students will now need to plan their courses more carefully and be prepared for additional immigration procedures if their studies extend beyond the approved period."