In a noticeable change of tone, former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed strong support for international students—especially those from India and China.
This is a shift from earlier policies that were more restrictive. Trump now welcomes foreign students to study, stay, and even start businesses in the United States. Let’s dive into what he said and why it matters.
Trump’s New Stance on International Students
Trump recently stated that students from China and India should not be forced to leave the U.S. after earning four-year degrees from American colleges.
He highlighted their important role in the American economy and supported keeping them in the country after graduation.
Chinese and Indian Students in the USA
There are about 1.1 million international students in U.S. universities. Chinese students make up around 277,000 of this total, while Indian students are the second-largest group.
Trump pointed out that approximately 50,000 Chinese students arrived this year—showing that the U.S. is still a favorite education destination.
National Security vs. Open Doors
When asked whether Chinese students posed a national security concern, Trump answered that he has always supported their presence, while acknowledging the need for reasonable monitoring.
He said, “You have to watch students, but you have to watch other people, too. I’ve always been strongly in favour.”
Contribution to the US Economy
Trump used Apple as an example: many top companies struggle to hire the best graduates because the students cannot stay in the country. He believes allowing these graduates to work for U.S. firms will benefit the American economy.
Easing Visa Rules
He described four years of U.S. education for foreign students as a valid route to “buy their way” into the country. Trump wants those students not just to study but also to stay, work, and start businesses in America.
He said that today, most return home and build successful companies—even becoming extremely wealthy. He hinted that the U.S. may address this issue soon.
Why This Shift?
The change in Trump’s tone follows recent stricter visa rules, including cancellations over minor infractions and campus protests supporting Palestine.
A proposal by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on May 28 to revoke Chinese student visas sparked concern. These new comments appear aimed at reversing some tighter immigration policies.
Trump’s updated position marks a notable shift in U.S. policy. He is now openly encouraging more foreign students—especially from India and China—not just to study in the U.S., but also to stay, work, and launch their own ventures.
His remarks suggest that the U.S. might relax visa rules, despite earlier crackdowns tied to security and campus unrest.
