最难开学季：赴美留学是镀金还是历险？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by Chinese students planning to study in the United States due to changing visa policies and the impact of the Trump administration's immigration stance on global education trends. It highlights a significant decline in Chinese students studying in the U.S., with many considering alternatives in Singapore and Hong Kong due to concerns over visa risks and costs [1][11]. Group 1: Visa Policy Changes - On May 27, 2025, the Trump administration announced a pause on new student visa appointments and expanded social media scrutiny for international students [1][5]. - On June 18, 2025, the administration resumed processing foreign student visas but required applicants to disclose their social media accounts, leading to concerns about privacy and the potential for visa denial based on social media activity [2][4]. - The F1 visa application process has become highly competitive, with students resorting to paying thousands for appointment slots due to limited availability [3][4]. Group 2: Decline in Chinese Students - Data shows that the number of Chinese students studying in the U.S. has significantly decreased, with India surpassing China as the largest source of international students in the U.S. [1][11]. - A survey indicated that the percentage of families reconsidering plans to study in the U.S. rose from 18% to 51.9% within a few months, reflecting growing concerns over U.S.-China relations and visa policies [11]. Group 3: Alternative Study Destinations - Many students, like Li Li, are considering universities in Singapore and Hong Kong as viable alternatives to U.S. institutions due to lower costs and fewer visa complications [8][10]. - The cost of studying at Harvard is significantly higher compared to institutions in Hong Kong and Singapore, prompting students to weigh their options carefully [10]. Group 4: Impact on Employment Opportunities - The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to work in the U.S. post-graduation, remains uncertain, with fears that future policy changes could further diminish its value [9]. - The approval rate for H-1B work visas has become increasingly competitive, with only 11.7% of approved applicants being Chinese, compared to 72.3% from India [9]. Group 5: Broader Implications of Immigration Policies - The article suggests that the Trump administration's immigration policies may lead to a net outflow of immigrants from the U.S. for the first time in half a century, which could have profound effects on the labor market [13]. - The tightening of immigration policies has created a climate of fear among international students, affecting their daily lives and decisions regarding their studies and future in the U.S. [14].