别再瞎折腾了，中产家庭留学的时代已经结束

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the declining trend in Chinese students pursuing overseas education, highlighting the shift in perception from optimism to concern due to rising costs and uncertain job prospects after graduation [3][5]. Summary by Sections Decline in Overseas Education - The number of students choosing to study abroad has decreased significantly over the past five years, with notable reductions in various prestigious universities: Peking University saw a drop of over 21% from 818 students in 2019 to 641 in 2024, while Tsinghua University experienced a 28% decrease from 2019 to 2023 [4]. Financial Burden - The cost of studying in the U.S. has become prohibitively high, with tuition at Columbia University reaching $70,000 per year and average costs exceeding $100,000 annually when including living expenses. Over four years, this amounts to approximately 3 million RMB [7]. Job Market Challenges - The likelihood of securing a job in the U.S. post-graduation has diminished, with H1B visa approval rates dropping from 50% a decade ago to between 14% and 25% currently. This has led to a situation where many Chinese students may have to return home without recovering their educational investments [8][20]. Changing Landscape of Opportunities - The previous advantages of studying abroad, such as the demand for overseas-educated talent, have eroded. The current job market in China is highly competitive, with public sector jobs and large state-owned enterprises becoming more desirable than private companies [10][24]. Historical Context - The article reflects on the historical context of educational opportunities in China, noting that the "exam boom" and subsequent globalization created a demand for overseas-educated individuals. However, this demand has shifted as the global landscape changes [12][16]. Current Realities - The tightening of U.S. visa policies and the overall geopolitical climate have made it increasingly difficult for international students to secure opportunities abroad. The article emphasizes that the landscape for studying abroad has fundamentally changed, and the previous pathways to success are no longer as viable [19][21]. Future Considerations - Despite the challenges, the article suggests that there are still opportunities for those who pursue excellence in fields such as STEM. The emphasis is on the need for individuals to align their education and career paths with their strengths and aspirations in a competitive global environment [26].