As U.S. tightens academic rules, the world opens its doors

Trump’s crackdown on elite U.S. universities is pushing students—and billions in academic revenue—toward global competitors.

As U.S. President Donald Trump targets academic institutions with funding cuts, visa restrictions, and tax hikes, universities around the world are stepping in to welcome displaced international students. Top institutions in Japan, China, Hong Kong, and Europe are actively offering tuition waivers, research grants, and support services to attract talent from the United States.

The crackdown, especially on Chinese students and institutions like Harvard, has stirred global concern, prompting many students to consider alternatives in the UK, Canada, and Asia-Pacific countries. While U.S. schools risk losing over $50 billion in international student contributions, experts warn of long-lasting reputational damage and a possible brain drain. International education leaders stress that talent denied in the U.S. will simply find opportunity elsewhere.

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