Why attacking Harvard’s international students is a HUGE mistake?
It defies logic to think that targeting international students at Harvard—or any single institution—wouldn't have broader repercussions across the entire U.S. higher education sector. Why jeopardise a $43.8 billion industry that supports over 378,000 jobs?
Trump often touts his business acumen yet seems to overlook the fundamentals of service exports. Ironically, his own enterprises thrive on services like hospitality and branding.
International education is a quintessential example of trade in services, bringing substantial economic benefits to the U.S.
Restrictive immigration policies don't just deter students from Harvard; they send a global message that international students aren't welcome. This opens doors for other countries to attract this talent pool. The U.K., with its prestigious universities, would be the most relevant to capitalise on this shift.
As of 2024, the leading countries attracting international students are:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Germany
- Australia
- France
- China
- Japan
- Italy
- Spain
These rankings are based on factors such as the number of international students hosted, quality of education, post-study work opportunities, and overall student satisfaction.
Notably, countries like Ireland, Austria, Malta, and Portugal are emerging as attractive alternatives, offering affordable education, favourable visa policies, and welcoming environments for international students.
By undermining the appeal of U.S. education through restrictive policies, the US risks ceding our competitive edge to these nations. It's not just about economics; it's about maintaining global influence and leadership in higher education.