Why Do American Students Underperform Compared to Their International Peers?

American children don’t trail because they are less capable, it is because they are held back by systems and circumstances that other countries manage better. At first glance it is tempting to treat international test gaps as a fixed measure of innate ability but the research is clear that cognitive potential or what some call “IQ”, is only one small part of the story. Across dozens of major studies and international assessments, patterns point to opportunity, school resources, early childhood exposure, pandemic disruption, family and neighbourhood inequality, time-on-task and choices about curriculum and technology as the dominant drivers.

The US decline is real and partly long-running

The OECD’s PISA 2022 country notes make this explicit: socio-economic status predicts a substantial share of US variation in math performance (about 15% in PISA 2022) and advantaged US students still underperform similarly advantaged peers in higher-scoring countries. The report also highlighted unequal access to pre-primary education, rising teacher shortages and high shares of students distracted by digital devices, which are all conditions that affect learning opportunities more than innate ability.National trends measured by NAEP (the Nation’s Report Card) show that reading and math performance fell for many student groups in recent assessments, a decline that predates Covid and was then worsened by pandemic disruptions. This is not a shortfall confined to the “top” kids or a single cohort; it is a broad weakening of learning outcomes, which points away from fixed cognitive differences and toward systemic issues.Stanford University’s influential 2011 synthesis (chapter in Whither Opportunity?) demonstrated that the income-achievement gap in the US has widened sharply over recent decades and children from low-income families now lag far more than similar cohorts did decades ago. The study’s central point was critical that socioeconomic differences like parental resources, concentrated poverty, access to high-quality preschools, books, enrichment and quiet study space create persistent and early gaps that schools alone struggle to erase. That’s an opportunity problem, not an IQ problem.If the gap were mainly innate, added resources would not move the needle much but the evidence shows the opposite. Harvard CEPR analyses of federal pandemic relief spending found measurable and short-term learning gains tied to funding. It showed roughly the equivalent of a few days of learning per $1,000 spent, with larger benefits where funds were used for targeted tutoring, summer programs and teacher support. That responsiveness to funding implies that instructional time, targeted interventions and better staffing can and do improve outcomes.

What countries do differently

The book The Knowledge Capital of Nations: Education and the Economics of Growth by Eric A Hanushek and Ludger Woessmann, published by The MIT Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts in 2015, emphasized that national economic outcomes correlate with what students learn, not merely how “smart” they are by birth. High-performing nations tend to combine strong early childhood participation, coherent curricula, effective teacher training and selection and fewer disparities across schools. Where the US diverges is in fragmented governance, unequal school funding (tied to local property taxes) and inconsistent adoption of instructional best practices — again, policy and systems, not innate ability.

So what should we do?

When you strip away political rhetoric, the science says that American kids are not genetically inferior to their international peers but they are embedded in a system that creates unequal early opportunities, allows uneven school quality, struggles to retain teachers and has recently endured massive learning disruptions. These are solvable problems and the research points to practical, evidence-based levers that produce gains when implemented at scale.

Columbia University could face a substantial financial impact if the Trump administration’s proposed $100,000 fee on H-1B visas is implemented, as reported by the Columbia Spectator. The fee, announced in a White House proclamation on September 19, 2025, could cost the University up to $20 million annually, according to data from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). While current H-1B visa holders and renewals are not affected, new visa petitions filed after September 21 would be subject to the levy, placing additional strain on universities that rely heavily on international talent for research and teaching.

New H-1B hires could drive costs

In the 2025 fiscal year, Columbia sponsored 112 new H-1B visa hires, including postdoctoral fellows, assistant professors, and research staff, out of a total of 217 active visas. Previous fiscal years saw 189 and 168 new hires in 2023 and 2024, respectively. If hiring patterns remain consistent, the proposed $100,000 fee per visa could translate into $10–20 million in extra costs annually. However, some new hires are visa transfers from other employers, which may not be subject to the fee.

Clarifying the scope of the fee

Columbia’s International Student and Scholars Office clarified that the new fee applies only to petitions filed after 12:01 a.m. on September 21, 2025. Individuals with an approved H-1B visa or approved I-797 are not affected, and the fee does not interfere with travel to or from the United States. A spokesperson emphasized that “the situation is fluid” as the University evaluates the potential implications for its recruitment of international researchers and staff.

Columbia’s H-1B Program and national standing

Columbia ranks 11th nationally among educational institutions sponsoring H-1B visas, according to USCIS data for fiscal year 2025. The H-1B program allows universities to hire highly skilled foreign workers in “specialty occupations” requiring at least a bachelor’s degree, including research scientists, medical residents, and postdoctoral fellows. Unlike corporations, universities are exempt from the annual H-1B lottery and cap, enabling more flexibility in recruiting international talent.

Previous federal challenges

The proposed H-1B fee comes on the heels of significant federal pressure on Columbia. In March 2025, the Trump administration canceled $400 million in federal grants and contracts, citing the University’s alleged inaction regarding harassment of Jewish students. This included a $250 million freeze by the National Institutes of Health, halting payments on existing research and cutting off new funding. As a result, Columbia laid off nearly 180 researchers.Earlier in July, Columbia reached a settlement with the federal government, agreeing to pay $200 million over three years and establish a $21 million claims fund for Jewish employees affected by antisemitism. As part of this agreement, Columbia committed to reviewing admissions processes to strengthen oversight of international students.

Looking ahead

The proposed fee adds another layer of uncertainty for Columbia as it continues to attract top international researchers and staff. Universities nationwide are closely monitoring the proclamation, which could reshape how institutions recruit and retain foreign talent in high-demand academic fields.

15 college majors in the US that might leave you drowning in debt

College is often sold as a golden ticket: you graduate, land a dream job, and watch your bank account grow. But sometimes that ticket comes with a surprise student loan debt. On average, US students owe about $39,075 in federal loans by the time they toss their graduation caps in the air. While a bachelor’s degree can boost your earning potential, certain majors are more likely to leave graduates under a mountain of debt.According to the Education Data Initiative, some degrees are especially notorious for saddling students with heavy loans. Here’s a look at the 15 majors that tend to leave students paying off debt long after graduation—and what careers they actually lead to.

Communications and journalism

Students pursuing communications or journalism often graduate with average student debt of $25,925. While traditional journalism roles are one option, graduates can also branch into copywriting, social media management, public relations, and human resources. It’s a versatile degree—but the loan repayment is a reality check.

Health professions and clinical sciences

Degrees in health professions or related clinical sciences can lead to careers in healthcare administration, clinical research, or education. Students in this field carry an average debt of $25,952, meaning the work of caring for others can start alongside a hefty repayment plan.

Visual and performing arts

Visual and performing arts graduates face significant financial risk, with average debt around $26,468. Careers may range from painting and design to acting or dance, but the unpredictability of the arts market means balancing creativity with finances is a must.

Arts, entertainment, and media management

A degree in arts, entertainment, or media management opens doors in music, sports, TV, and film. Graduates share an average debt of $26,468, showing that even behind-the-scenes roles in glamorous industries come with a hefty price tag.

Architecture

Architecture combines creativity and engineering, preparing graduates for work in building design, urban planning, or interior design. Yet, the cost of this preparation is high: students leave school with an average of $26,468 in loans.

Music

Whether dreaming of the stage, studio, or classroom, music majors face significant debt. Students leave school with an average of $26,600, even as their career paths span teaching, sound engineering, or studio management.

Physical sciences

Degrees in physics, chemistry, or other physical sciences provide a foundation for engineering, environmental science, and related fields. Students graduate with an average debt of $26,635, reflecting the cost of preparing for technically demanding careers.

Natural sciences

Natural science students—covering biology, chemistry, and foundational sciences—graduate with average loans of $26,912. While these degrees can be a stepping stone to medicine, pharmacy, or research, the financial burden is substantial.

Literature

English literature graduates may enter teaching, writing, journalism, or public relations, but they also carry an average student debt of $26,987, making early career paychecks feel surprisingly small.

Clinical, counselling, and applied psychology

Psychology undergraduates leave school with an average of $27,439 in debt. Many pursue careers as school counselors, social workers, or behavior technicians, though higher-paying roles typically require graduate study.

Education

Graduates with education degrees have noble goals—teaching, tutoring, or career counseling—but often carry an average debt of $28,001. With median teacher salaries around $64,390, budgeting and careful financial planning are key.

Human services

Human services is a broad field covering social work, community outreach, and counseling. Students graduate with average debt of $28,586, highlighting the financial challenges of entering helping professions.

Culinary arts

Culinary arts graduates dream of becoming chefs or restaurateurs, yet their average student debt of $28,586 shows that cooking up a career comes at a cost. Starting salaries often lag behind the loans incurred, making smart financial planning essential.

Religious education

Religious education graduates can pursue teaching, nonprofit work, or positions within religious institutions. Average student debt in this field is $31,984, showing that even spiritually rewarding careers often come with a financial weight.

Behavioral sciences

Behavioral sciences students study human behavior and organizational systems. Graduates carry the heaviest debt on this list, averaging $42,822, reflecting the broad applicability of the degree and the cost of preparation.

Bottom line

The Education Data Initiative reports that total student loan debt in the US reached $1.81 trillion in the second quarter of 2025. While these figures may be intimidating, choosing a degree you are passionate about can still pay off—if you plan wisely. Scholarships, side hustles, and smart loan repayment strategies can help graduates chase their dreams without letting debt become a lifelong shadow.Because the truth is: you can pursue your passion—and survive your student loans.

H-1B holder shares US struggles: What Indians should know before moving back home

A recent Reddit post by an H-1B visa holder went viral, capturing the anxieties many Indians face while living in the US. The writer, despite having an approved I-140, described feeling stuck and constantly worrying about visa renewals, career uncertainty, and personal relationships. They shared the exhaustion of dating setbacks, the weight of social isolation, and the growing appeal of returning to India for stability, family support, and a sense of belonging. Their story resonated with thousands, sparking conversations about what it really means to make such a life-changing decision.

H-1B holder shares US struggles

For Indians considering a return to India, it’s not just a question of geography—it’s a choice that touches career, lifestyle, finances, and personal well-being.

Career opportunities and growth in India

One of the first considerations is professional life. While the US market offers high salaries, global exposure, and structured career paths, India’s economy is booming, particularly in tech, analytics, finance, and consulting. Returning professionals often find opportunities to leverage their international experience, sometimes stepping into leadership roles or specialised positions that may not have been accessible earlier. At the same time, salary growth may not initially match US standards, and adapting to the local work culture requires careful planning.

Lifestyle and work-life balance

Life in India offers proximity to family, cultural familiarity, and a potentially stronger social network. However, metro cities bring their own challenges: long commutes, traffic, and pollution, along with differences in workplace expectations and social norms. For many, the emotional comfort of being home can outweigh these inconveniences, but it’s important to realistically assess the trade-offs between convenience, lifestyle, and personal fulfillment.

Financial considerations

Financial planning is a crucial part of any return. Cost of living in Indian metros can be high, though tier-2 cities may offer a better balance. Income tax, savings, and investments operate differently than in the U.S., and it’s essential to plan a financial cushion to navigate the initial months of transition. Many returning professionals use their US savings to ease this period and support relocation logistics.

Social life and relationships

The challenges of dating and building friendships in the US often contribute to the desire to return. India’s cultural familiarity and community networks can make social connections easier, though re-integrating may still require adjustment, especially for those who have been abroad for several years. Moving home is not an instant solution to social frustrations but can offer a more supportive environment for building meaningful relationships.

Mental and emotional well-being

Perhaps the most understated factor is mental health. Immigration stress, professional pressure, and social isolation can take a significant toll. Moving back can relieve the constant anxiety over visas and uncertainty, providing a sense of belonging and long-term stability. But it’s important to distinguish between running from stress and moving toward opportunity—ensuring that the decision is proactive rather than reactive.

Bottom line

There is no universal answer. Some professionals thrive after returning, reconnecting with family, culture, and career opportunities. Others struggle with career reintegration or miss the lifestyle they left behind. For H-1B holders with approved I-140s, the decision is especially complex: staying may eventually offer stability, but with ongoing stress, while returning offers a fresh start with its own set of challenges and rewards.Careful reflection on career prospects, lifestyle preferences, finances, social life, and emotional well-being is key before making the leap.

Trump administration moves high school career programs to labour department

The Trump administration has moved career and technical education programs from the U.S. Education Department to the Labor Department. The change shifts day-to-day control of more than $1 billion in funding for high school and community college programs. Officials say the goal is to better connect students to jobs. Critics warn it could narrow opportunities and reduce oversight.Career and technical education, or CTE, gives students skills they can use in the workforce and exposes them to different careers. Programs include health care, manufacturing, information technology, and other sectors. CTE programs also allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, providing a head start on associate or bachelor’s degrees, according to Chalkbeat.

What the change means

The Labor Department will now manage the daily operations of CTE programs. This includes distributing Perkins funding, overseeing compliance, and providing technical guidance to states and schools. The Education Department retains formal oversight but will no longer handle day-to-day management.The administration has said the shift is intended to reduce administrative burdens on states and increase participation in the workforce, particularly among young adults not in school or employment. A federal interagency agreement allows the Labor Department to lead operations while keeping the Education Department involved in oversight.Experts note that the change could cause short-term disruption but may improve alignment between education programs and workforce needs.

Concerns about staff and oversight

Critics argue that federal staffing is insufficient to manage the transition effectively. Federal CTE offices previously provided guidance to states and schools on compliance, program design, and support for students with disabilities. With fewer staff at the Education Department and much of the work shifted to the Labor Department, schools may face challenges in accessing guidance or implementing new initiatives.There is concern that states may have difficulty understanding how to apply rules, manage programs, and develop new courses without sufficient federal support.

Focus on short-term jobs

Some advocates fear that the Labor Department will focus programs on short-term job credentials rather than long-term career pathways. Federal law requires CTE programs to prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand jobs. An emphasis on short-term credentials could steer students toward roles such as nursing assistants or home health aides that provide immediate employment but limited long-term career growth.CTE programs, including health care and phlebotomy classes, allow students to earn industry certifications and college credit while still in high school, giving them a head start on higher education, according to Chalkbeat. Experts emphasize that these programs should be stepping stones to further education and not viewed as final career destinations.

Lessons from Alabama

Alabama has aligned its education and workforce programs in recent years. According to a 2019 Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas report, the state had the highest share of young people not in school or employed. Alabama developed a system to identify valuable credentials and career pathways and established a state apprenticeship agency.The federal move to the Labor Department may provide more funding for training programs and help states streamline workforce development. CTE programs in Alabama allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, giving them a head start on associate or bachelor’s degrees while gaining job-ready skills, according to Chalkbeat.

Legal and political debate

Some Democrats in Congress argue that the transfer of funds and responsibilities is illegal and should have been approved by Congress. Other experts say that the Education and Labor Departments already collaborate on CTE programs, and the move is not necessary.The Education Department did not respond to questions about staffing or oversight. Multiple spokespeople were out of office due to a government shutdown.

Impact on students

CTE programs help students gain technical skills, earn college credit, and prepare for further education or employment. Critics warn that focusing too heavily on immediate employment outcomes could limit long-term opportunities for students. Access to programs varies across regions, with some students lacking exposure to high-quality courses. Coordinated efforts among states, schools, and businesses are needed to ensure equitable access.Chalkbeat reports that well-designed CTE programs can provide both meaningful job skills and college credit, allowing students to move efficiently from high school to further education or the workforce.