In the lead-up to former US President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, a significant number of Indian students studying in the United States have decided to quit their part-time jobs, fearing deportation. These students, who hold F-1 visas, are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours a week on campus. However, many have taken up off-campus, undocumented jobs to supplement their income.
With Trump’s potential second term, these students are concerned about tougher immigration policies and stricter enforcement of visa rules. Many have taken out large student loans to finance their education and are not willing to risk their future prospects by violating any visa regulations. A graduate student from the University of Illinois shared his experience, saying, “I used to work at a small café after my college hours, earning $7 per hour for six hours a day. But I quit last week after hearing about potential crackdowns on unauthorised work. I can’t afford to take risks, especially with $50,000 in student loans.”
Financial Strain and Adjusting to New Realities
Previously, many Indian students in the US worked in restaurants, gas stations, or retail stores to cover living expenses, including rent and groceries. However, with the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s immigration policies, students are now reevaluating their financial strategies.
Many students are relying on savings or borrowing money from friends and family back home in India to get by. “I’ve already used up most of my savings and started borrowing small amounts from my roommate. I’m not sure how long I can keep going like this,” said a computer science student from Texas.
Mental Health Struggles Amid Financial Pressure
The uncertainty and financial pressure are also affecting students’ mental health, with many grappling with anxiety and stress as they navigate the challenge of making ends meet without part-time jobs.
Although Trump has signaled a more lenient approach toward H-1B visas and encouraged international students to pursue studies in US universities, Indian students remain cautious. They are prioritizing compliance with visa rules over financial hardship, given the risks involved in violating immigration laws.
For now, these students are adopting a wait-and-see approach, hoping for more clarity on policy changes in the coming months before making any decisions about re-entering the workforce.