Is USA a good option for PhD or masters given the visa issues for Indian students for a Master's?

The USA remains a top destination for Master's and PhD studies, but recent visa challenges for Indian students are significant. In 2025, the F-1 student visa rejection rate for Indian applicants rose to 61% (up from 36% in 2023), mainly due to stricter policies, expanded social media checks, and enhanced background reviews.

Indian student enrollment in the US dropped 6.9% from Feb 2025 to Feb 2026.

If you choose the US, ensure your application is strong - clear academic records, financial proof, and a professional online presence are more important than ever. You may also want to consider alternative countries with more favorable visa conditions.