Would Biden’s Higher Education Plans Make College Cheaper for International Students?
The discussion around President Biden’s higher education plans has ignited a debate on their potential impact, particularly for international students. Critics argue that these plans will only serve to further burden taxpayers while doing little to address the root causes of high education costs. Let’s delve into the nuances of these plans and their implications for international students.
Dissecting the Plans: An Analysis
President Biden’s approach to higher education mirrors his stance on most policies: a heavy reliance on public funding and social welfare. The rhetoric often centers around providing easier access to college, with a specific emphasis on reducing financial barriers for students. However, the execution often appears flawed, as it lacks concrete solutions to longstanding issues.
Many politicians, including those in the U.S., have a vested interest in maintaining a bloated and expensive higher education system. This system tends to prioritize short-term gains over long-term solutions. As a result, tuition rates continue to soar, despite politicians’ promises of relief. In essence, the current structure is designed to profit from student loans and high tuition fees, making education a commodity rather than a right.
The Reality for International Students
For international students, the situation remains largely unchanged. Universities are reluctant to reduce tuition fees, as they see an opportunity to charge higher rates due to the government’s willingness to support them financially. This phenomenon is often referred to as “beggar-thy-neighbor,” where institutions raise their prices, assuming that students, even those from abroad, have the means to pay more.
Additionally, Biden’s plans for aid and support are primarily aimed at U.S. citizens and residents. This selective approach is based on the idea that the taxpayer—those who vote in elections—should benefit most from government spending. International students, while significant contributors to the economy, do not have the same direct influence on government policies. Therefore, any changes are likely to be minimal for them.
Historical Context: What About Previous Policies?
To provide a historical perspective, let’s look at the policies of previous administrations. Under former President Trump, changes were more about fees and regulations rather than direct financial aid. For instance, Trump sought to increase the I-901 fee, intensify the renewal process for OPT (Optional Practical Training), and generally make studying in the U.S. more cumbersome for international students. However, despite these challenges, international students still benefit from the opportunities to work and recover some of the costs associated with their studies.
Biden’s approach is similarly vague and lacks concrete plans to reduce tuition for international students. His rhetoric centers around “throwing money at the problem,” appealing to socialist sentiments, but this approach risks exacerbating existing issues without providing sustainable solutions. The risk of public education systems collapsing under the weight of such large-scale programs is real, and international students might find themselves caught in the crossfire.
Investment in Education: A Smarter Strategy
Instead of mired in short-term political priorities, nations should consider a smarter strategy that focuses on attracting the best talent from around the globe. A country that truly sees education as an investment in its future would create institutions that attract the best students, both domestically and internationally.
The rationale behind this approach is clear: when top graduates stay and contribute to the economy, the overall impact is positive. By creating a competitive environment that selects the best students, nations can foster a culture of excellence and innovation. This long-term view is more sustainable and less likely to create the kind of debt burden seen in the current system.
In conclusion, Biden’s plans for higher education, while well-intentioned, may not significantly impact international student tuition. Given the historical context and the current reliance on short-term solutions, the status quo is likely to persist. International students should remain informed and proactive, seeking out institutions that offer value and opportunities for growth, rather than relying on changes that may or may not come.