Introduction: A Wake-Up Call for Every Indian Parent

Last week, an Indian student messaged me from Boston: “Aunty, I don’t know if I should stay here anymore. My university may lose visa privileges. My OPT ( Optional Practical Training) offer is on hold. What do I tell my parents who’ve taken a loan of 45 lakhs for me?” That message broke me.

I’ve spent over a decade guiding Indian parents through school and college decisions. Right now, I need to sit with you and speak heart-to-heart. If your child is already in the U.S. or dreaming of studying there, you must read this post till the end.

What Just Happened at Harvard? Why It Matters to You

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently banned Harvard University from admitting new international students. Harvard allegedly failed to comply with federal student record requests and tolerated campus unrest. Over 6,800 international students are affected, including more than 800 Indian students. These students now face losing their F-1 visa status, forcing them to transfer or return home.

(Source: Economic Times, Time.com, DHS.gov, NY Post)

Why Every Indian Parent Should Be Concerned — Not Just Harvard Parents

This isn’t just about Harvard. If Harvard can be penalized, other universities are also at risk. U.S. policies may now begin using visa status as a political weapon, putting students in the crossfire.

Real Voices: Indian Students Speak Up

1. “I’m scared to even attend a protest or speak in class about global issues. What if someone reports me?” — Rhea, Master’s Student, California”.
2. Harvard was supposed to be my golden ticket. Now my future is on shaky ground.” — Arjun, Boston”
3. They called me a visa grabber. I felt like crying on the subway.” — Ananya, Texas
4. “My ₹60 lakh loan feels like a trap now. I can’t even be sure I’ll stay in the U.S. next year.” — Raj, New Jersey
5. Expenses Are Climbing, Job Security Is Falling
6. ₹65–85 lakhs: Total estimated cost for a 2-year master’s in the U.S.Job offers are being delayed or canceled due to visa issues.
7. OPT (Optional Practical Training) is valid for 1 year (3 if STEM), but students now fear they’ll lose even that.

Visa Rules Are Becoming Tighter

1. F-1 Visas can be invalidated if your university loses SEVP certification.
2. H-1B Work Visa is lottery-based with no guarantee of selection.
3. Students without backup options are left stranded.

Racism and Cultural Shocks Are Real

1. Reports of rising verbal abuse and online hate.
2. Cultural isolation and mental health struggles.
3. Fear of expressing Indian identity or attending public events.

What You Should Do — Parent & Student Checklist

If Your Child Is Already in the U.S.:

1. Contact the International Student Office for updates.
2. Stay away from protests or controversial posts.
3. Keep documents ready for transfers or emergencies.

If Your Child Is Planning to Go in 2025–2026:

1. Apply only to SEVP-certified, politically stable universities. Focus on STEM programs (get 3-year OPT and better job chances).
2. Prepare backup applications for UK, Singapore, Japan, Russia, Ireland, UAE etc.

Safer Alternatives to Ivy League Schools

1. Indian Universities are safer
2. Singapore: NUS, NTU
3. Sydney University, Australia
4. Germany: TU Munich, RWTH Aachen
5. Ireland
6. UAE
7. Russia
8. Japan

Final Advice: From One Parent to Another

Read everything about SEVP here

You’ve probably saved your whole life or taken a huge loan to fund this dream. I respect that. Deeply. But don’t let brand names fool you. Harvard isn’t invincible.Be alert. Do your research. Build backup plans. Most importantly, talk to your child: Are they ready emotionally?

Do they feel safe? Can they adapt to cultural shocks? Because this is not just about a degree. It’s about their safety, well-being, and dignity. Let’s protect their dreams. But not at the cost of their peace.

Verified Sources:

Economic Times

Time.com

DHS.gov

NY Post

The Daily Signal

Real student interviews (Quora, LinkedIn, private emails)

Useful Links

Harvard Visa Ban Article (ET)F1 & H1B Visa Info

STEM OPT Eligible Programs

Share this post with every parent or student who dreams of studying in the USA. Awareness is the first step to protection.

Madhurie Singh