Career Crafters

  STEM is not the only safe option in the USA for Indians. But STEM is the least risky under the current visa–job–immigration reality of 2026+. Let’s break this down honestly, without selling fear or false hope. Why STEM Feels “Safer” (and Mostly Is) STEM dominates because it aligns with three hard realities of the U.S. system: 1️⃣ Longer Work Time = More Chances STEM graduates get 3 years of OPT (12 + 24 months) Non-STEM gets only 1 year More time = more job switches, higher salaries, better H-1B odds 👉 This alone makes STEM statistically safer. 2️⃣ H-1B Is Now Salary-Driven With the shift away from a pure lottery: Higher wages = higher selection weight STEM jobs typically pay more Entry-level non-STEM roles struggle to compete 👉 The system rewards economic value , not passion. 3️⃣ Employer Willingness Tech, engineering, data, healthcare companies are used to sponsorship Arts, media, education, hospitality firms often avoid visas compl...

 Yes — the H-1B lottery (and its overhaul) is making U.S. education riskier for international students who plan to stay and work in the U.S. after graduation , but it hasn’t completely closed the door. It changes the nature of the “gamble,” rather than ending opportunities outright. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s happening in 2026+: 🎯 What’s Changing with H-1B in 2026 📉 1. No More Pure Random Lottery The traditional H-1B lottery — where every eligible applicant had an equal chance — is being replaced with a wage-weighted selection system starting Feb 27, 2026 . Visas will be prioritised for higher-wage jobs , meaning roles with better pay and more experience points get higher selection odds , although lower wages are still technically eligible. The Indian Express +1 👉 This means “luck” matters less than before, but salary level and job quality matter more. 💸 2. New Costs & Incentives for Employers Employers hiring foreign talent (especially outside the U.S.) n...

  . USA Still Offers World-Class Education and Career Value Academic & Professional Prestige: • U.S. universities remain among the world’s strongest in research, innovation, and global reputation. A degree from top U.S. institutions often carries lifelong value. Eleevate Overseas Post-Study Work Options: • OPT (Optional Practical Training) + STEM OPT still allow up to 3 years of work after graduation , especially in STEM fields like CS, engineering, data science, biotech — a major reason many choose the U.S. Eleevate Overseas +1 Networking & Exposure: • Strong campus networks, internships, company connections, and exposure to cutting-edge industries aren’t easily replicated in many other countries. foredoverseas.com 📊 Despite challenges, Indian students remain the largest group on U.S. campuses , showing continued demand. The Times of India ⚠️ 2. Real Challenges Today (Especially Visa & Immigration) Visa and Immigration Uncertainty: • Recent U.S. visa policy...