This year, the US Consulate General in Chennai expects Indian students to be the largest group among international students in US institutions, surpassing Chinese students in the future. Hosting free higher education fairs across cities like Bengaluru, Manipal, Mangalauru, Kochi, and Coimbatore, the consulate aims to attract more Indian students to US universities. In the academic year 2022/23, 1,057,188 international students were enrolled in US institutions, with 268,923 being from India—a number expected to rise. The fairs provide a platform for students outside major capitals to explore US education opportunities. In 2022, there was a 35% increase in Chinese student enrollments, but the growth in Indian student numbers is expected to be more significant in the coming years. Christopher Hodges, the US Consulate General in Chennai, highlighted that South Indian students predominantly inquire about courses in computer science, artificial intelligence, and business administration. With 55% of international students opting for STEM fields, enhanced by the option to stay in the US for 36 months post-graduation, other popular fields include math and computer science, engineering, business management, and social sciences.

Hodges also discussed the US-India initiative on critical and emerging technologies (iCET), aimed at fostering advances in sectors like commercial space, AI, quantum, and green hydrogen. This initiative seeks to connect American universities with South Indian business and research entities to leverage mutual talent for growth and innovation.

Dr. MC Sudhakar from the Department of Higher Education, who attended the fair in Bengaluru, mentioned the government’s support for skill-based education through international collaborations, especially for students who cannot afford to study in the US. These partnerships between US and Karnataka universities will focus on conducting joint classes.

The education fairs, running until February 20, 2024, are organized by the US Department of Commerce and the International Trade Administration. They offer a chance for students to interact with representatives from US universities, EducationUSA advisers, and US visa officers. The tour includes stops in several cities, hosting senior representatives from universities like George Washington University, University of Texas-San Antonio, Arizona State University, and University of Arkansas.