Screening foreign students for 'American values': What it means for Indian students

Indian students hoping to study in the US now encounter an unexpected hurdle in the admissions process: a political loyalty assessment. The Trump administration’s recent memo, titled A Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education and sent to nine of the country’s most prestigious universities, requires institutions to screen foreign applicants not only for academic ability but also for their support of American and Western values. In other words, strong grades alone are no longer enough; applicants must also demonstrate allegiance to US ideals.

This development ties into a broader push by the administration to reshape US higher education policies. The memo demands that universities ensure foreign students do not display hostility toward the US or its allies. For Indian applicants, one of the largest groups of foreign students in the US, this means added scrutiny beyond usual visa procedures.

What the screening entails
Universities must collaborate with the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department to vet foreign students' backgrounds thoroughly. This includes reviewing disciplinary records and any evidence of “hostility” or opposition to American values. Essentially, students are expected to pass an ideological litmus test before they can enrol.

Political loyalty check adds to visa hurdles
Screening foreign students for political alignment adds a new layer to already complex visa rules. Indian students, who faced a 45% drop in US arrivals in August 2025 compared to the previous year, might find their applications delayed or rejected if flagged for perceived ideological misalignment. The administration insists this measure is about national security, as reported by official sources.

Implications for academic freedom and diversity
The policy raises questions about academic freedom and the role of universities as global knowledge hubs. Indian students and scholars, traditionally seen as contributors to innovation and research, now face the challenge of proving their political ‘fitness' to participate. This shift could affect campus diversity and the free exchange of ideas.

The economic and community impact
International students, including those from India, contributed $46 billion to the US economy in 2024, supporting nearly 400,000 jobs, according to The PIE News. A decrease in foreign enrolment due to increased ideological screening risks economic losses and threatens communities reliant on international student spending.

Screening process and what Indian students can expect
The vetting includes background checks, disciplinary reviews, and possibly assessments of social media activity. Indian students may be asked to demonstrate explicit support for US policies or values. Universities are tasked with reporting any concerns to federal agencies, increasing scrutiny on applicants' personal beliefs and behaviours.

This new policy forms part of the Trump administration's broader educational reforms linking federal funding to ideological alignment. Indian students hoping to study in the US will need to navigate not only academic challenges but also political expectations to secure their place on campus.