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Published by Afterschool.my on Mar 27, 2025, 03:47 pm
With Donald Trump securing a second term in office, his policies on immigration and international relations are once again in the spotlight.
While much attention has been placed on how UK universities might benefit, there are important considerations for students from Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, and how they might adapt their study plans in response to these changes.
Trump’s Policies and Their Impact on International Education
During Trump’s first presidency (2017-2021), the number of international students in the US declined each year. Stricter visa regulations, anti-immigration rhetoric, and uncertainty around post-study work opportunities made the US less appealing to many international students. By 2019-2020, there were 50,000 fewer international students in the US compared to before Trump took office.
For Malaysian students, these changes created uncertainty. The increased scrutiny on visa applicants, particularly from Muslim-majority countries, heightened concerns about acceptance rates and the overall student experience. Countries like Australia experienced notable increases in international students from Muslim-majority countries, including Malaysia and Indonesia, during Trump's presidency.
If Trump's second term sees similar immigration restrictions, Malaysian students may once again face challenges when considering the US as a study destination.
A Shift in Study Destinations
In response to these obstacles, Malaysian students increasingly explored alternative study options during Trump's first term. Countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada saw rising enrolments as they offered clearer visa pathways, better post-study work options, and more welcoming environments.
For example, the UK's Graduate Route visa allows international students to stay and work in the country for two years after graduation (three years for PhD graduates). This pathway presents a strong alternative for those seeking global career opportunities. Similarly, Australia's Post-Study Work Stream visa and Canada's welcoming immigration policies have made these countries attractive for Malaysian students seeking stability.
Ripple Effects on Malaysia's Education Landscape
While Trump's policies were largely US-centric, their ripple effects extended globally. Some Malaysian universities reported an increase in partnerships with UK and Australian institutions, likely due to shifting student preferences. Additionally, transnational education (TNE) programmes, where students begin their studies locally before completing their degrees abroad, gained popularity as a safer and more affordable pathway.
Practical Advice for Malaysian Students
With the possibility of stricter US visa rules returning, Malaysian students considering overseas education should weigh their options carefully. While the US still offers top-tier universities, exploring alternative destinations may provide more security and flexibility.
For those still set on pursuing education in the US, it’s essential to stay informed about evolving immigration policies, consider backup options in other countries, and explore local TNE pathways to reduce costs and minimise risk.
Ultimately, Trump’s second term could create a new wave of global student mobility trends. By making informed decisions, Malaysian students can ensure they choose destinations that align with their goals for safety, affordability, and career opportunities.
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