When considering options for studying abroad, most students give serious though to the United States of America, and why not? It is a global superpower, and there is a very minuscule population of people who are not mesmerised by the American Dream. But with the hostile treatment toward immigrants—and non-native citizens in general—in the country, students are considering other countries like Canada and Australia as destinations for higher education.
However, believe it or not, there is a silver lining to this seemingly grim scenario, especially if you are one of those students who has their heart set on a school in the USA.
1. Less Competition, Better Odds
Since a large chunk of students are considering schools in Canada, Australia and other countries to apply to for higher education, it does reduce the total number of applications pouring into the graduate schools in the USA. So, if you are planning to apply to a graduate school in the United States, you will now face less competition, which thus enhances your odds of getting in.
The considerable decrease in the influx of international applications in business schools has also prompted the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to offer STEM MBA degrees through business schools to attract more international applicants.
2. Better chances of getting a scholarship
Due to the decline in the volume of applications received by the universities, the competition associated with landing one or more of the available scholarships offered by the school has also cooled down. If you apply to any school in the USA that offers considerable scholarships (to deserving candidates, of course) and your profile matches their eligibility criteria, chances are quite promising that you shall spend less than expected on your graduation degree.
3. Fluctuations in Visa Regulations
Nobody is unaware of the current anti-immigration environment in the USA, which is a major deterrent in the path of higher education for many students. However, the USA does require qualified (and preferably young) professionals to fill up jobs that are essential for its economy to at least sustain itself, if not grow further. The current system of granting the H1-B visa comprises of a lottery system, which is expected to be reformed soon.
4. Possible Change in Administration
2020 is the election year and if you consider the scenario where Donal Trump does not get re-elected, his administration would not be the one deciding whether you do or do not get your H1-B visa in the next two, or three years. Regime change in the USA directly affects visa as well as immigration policies, so giving up on your dream US-based school just because of the government might be cause for regret later.
So, you see, all hope is not lost. In fact, if you play your cards right and at the right time, things could very well work out in your favour! Build your profile, work hard, and go ahead to get your piece of the American Dream.
