US Universities to Prioritise Safety and Support for Indian Students in 2024
The US continues to be the top choice for Indian students seeking overseas education, with the US Embassy predicting a rise in demand for student visas in 2024.
The US continues to be the top choice for Indian students seeking overseas education, with the US Embassy predicting a rise in demand for student visas in 2024. Official figures reveal that in the previous year, 140,000 student visas were issued in India. In 2023, Indian students made up the largest group of international graduate students in the US.
Concerns Rise Among Indian Parents Amid Recent Student Deaths in the United States:
Despite the US remaining a favoured destination for Indian students, a series of recent deaths involving Indian and Indian-origin students has raised significant concerns among Indian parents this year. These incidents, although unrelated and stemming from various causes such as accidents, suicides, overdoses, and homicides, have heightened anxiety about the safety of sending their children to US universities for education.
The Officials’ Addressing Statement:
“We want to acknowledge and mourn the tragic deaths of some Indian students in the United States over the past few months,” said Nicole Holler, spokesperson for the US Embassy in Delhi. “The United States is strongly committed to the safety and welfare of all students on campus, including international students. Building safe and inclusive communities is a fundamental part of what US universities do every day as they welcome and support both American and international students on campus.”
The Focus on Safety Amid Growing Numbers of Indian Students:
US universities, witnessing a rise in Indian student enrollment, are prioritising the safety and security of international students. “Families sending their students abroad should examine universities' public safety records. Our safety statistics over the past decade are exemplary,” said Mark Daly, Director of International Affairs at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), to the Times of India. “We offer robust support services through our international student affairs office, counsellors, advisors, and peer-student organisations, including those with students from India.” UMKC, a popular destination for Indian students, reports strong demand for admissions from India, with 841 Indian students enrolled this spring semester.
USC Sees Surge in Applications from Indian Students, Emphasises Safety
The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, has seen a record number of applications from Indian students for both undergraduate and graduate programs this year. Timothy Brunold, Dean of Admission at USC, emphasised the university's commitment to student safety, stating, “We are dedicated to providing a secure and supportive environment that fosters academic and personal growth for all students on campus and in our community.” He highlighted USC’s comprehensive support through the Office of International Services.
Recent reports of Indian student deaths in the US have heightened concern among families in India, leading to increased scrutiny of safety measures and student support services offered by institutions. Adarsh Khandelwal, co-founder of Collegify, noted, “The deaths of several Indian students in recent months have raised significant concerns among parents and students. This highlights the importance of addressing safety, mental health, and overall well-being for international students.” He emphasised parents’ focus on institutions with strong healthcare, counselling, and emergency assistance resources.
