中产家庭留学时代结束

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the declining trend in the number of Chinese students studying abroad, highlighting the increasing costs and diminishing returns on investment in foreign education, particularly in the United States [4][5][6][13]. Group 1: Decline in Study Abroad Numbers - The number of students choosing to study abroad has been decreasing over the past five years, with significant reductions reported from top universities such as Peking University (21% decrease) and Tsinghua University (28% decrease) [5]. - The financial burden of studying abroad has become unbearable, with tuition fees at popular institutions like Columbia University reaching $70,000 per year, leading to a total cost of around 3 million RMB for a four-year program [5][6]. Group 2: Changing Landscape of Employment - The likelihood of Chinese students remaining in the U.S. post-graduation has drastically decreased, with H1B visa approval rates dropping from 50% a decade ago to between 14% and 25% currently [6][11]. - The job market in China has become increasingly competitive, with domestic graduates facing fierce competition from millions of peers, making it difficult for returnees to recoup their educational investments [6][13]. Group 3: Historical Context and Shifts - The article contrasts the past "study abroad boom" driven by the high demand for educated individuals during China's rapid urbanization and globalization phases with the current reality where such opportunities are diminishing [7][8]. - The global landscape has shifted, with countries tightening immigration policies and reducing opportunities for foreign students, reflecting broader geopolitical changes [11][12][14]. Group 4: Future Considerations - Despite the challenges, there remains a need for talented individuals in various fields, and those who can adapt and excel in their chosen areas may still find success [15]. - The article emphasizes the importance of aligning educational pursuits with personal strengths and career aspirations, suggesting that the pursuit of excellence remains crucial in a competitive global environment [15].