US freezes Fulbright funding, impacting thousands of students

The US State Department has frozen funding for the Fulbright scholarship and other programs, causing a crisis for thousands of students, especially from India. This unexpected move has created financial difficulties and disrupted academic plans, leaving many scholars uncertain about their futures. The Fulbright Scholarship has traditionally helped students and professionals from around the world pursue education and research in the US. With funding now halted, many students find themselves in limbo, struggling with financial pressures and stalled academic progress. The funding freeze poses particular challenges for those in STEM and policy fields, who rely heavily on these scholarships for their research and studies. Without this financial support, students may have to seek loans and face mounting debt, while others already studying in the US are losing necessary funding overnight. Students enrolled in US institutions are left trying to figure out how to continue their education without the anticipated financial backing. Some may even have to drop out, derailing years of hard work and progress. The broader impact of these changes could affect US academic relations globally. As scholars reconsider their options, some may seek opportunities elsewhere, which could weaken the US's role in global education and influence. As students search for ways to adapt, the future of international education remains uncertain. The pathway to higher education in the US is becoming harder to navigate, raising questions about what lies ahead for many aspiring scholars.