Harvard Reigns Supreme in STEM, Despite Rising Global Competition

Despite growing competition from destinations like the UK and Germany, Harvard continues to attract the brightest STEM minds worldwide.

London, September 2025: The American Dream often begins with Harvard, which attracts many top minds globally . From STEM courses to engineering, Harvard is one of the most reputable universities. Getting in is never easy. The acceptance rate hovers in the 18% for international students according to Harvard statistics report class of 2028 However, every year, determined students still manage to succeed in the admissions process. Many students from India are among those who carry forward Harvard’s long tradition of excellence. For many, the dream of attending Harvard has always been a goal, for those who are accepted, it often acts as a golden ticket to a brighter future.

For years, students believed that getting into Harvard meant one thing; a strong GMAT score or exceptional academic merit. That still holds true today, but the 2025 controversy created new tension and shook student confidence. While some managed to secure admission, others were forced to defer to wait till the situation improves.

A recent court ruling has reaffirmed stability at Harvard, easing concerns for students worldwide. Earning a place in Harvard has never been easy. It takes strong academics, a polished SOP, and the confidence to stand out. U.S. visa policies also value sincere and committed students, which is why preparation is essential. According to The USA Travel state of government from September 2, 2025, most F and J students will have to do their visa interviews in person instead of using a waiver. It’s an extra step, but it gives students a chance to sit across from an officer and explain why they want to study in the U.S. The new rules may feel stricter, but at least the process is now more straightforward, so students know exactly what to expect.

The positive part of this is despite several checks many Indian students did make it to Harvard, while the process may be a bit detailed but a serious mind will get a chance if they plan in advance and follow all the protocols. While there are many questions surrounding the U.S. and Harvard, one thing I’m certain of is that no one can stop a student who is determined to gain a quality education and comes with strong merit and dreams in their eyes. The only difference now is that students need to plan much further in advance, said Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance.

Sonal also added further, Despite challenges, the U.S. remains the largest hub for international students, with over 1.1 million enrolled in 2023/24. India has surpassed China as the top source country with 331,602 students (+23% YoY).

It’s clear that today’s Gen Z students know exactly what they want from world-class education to global careers or stability. Harvard will always be a dream, but recent headlines have pushed many to explore other destinations that feel more accessible and future ready.

The UK is leading that shift. With 732,285 international students in 2023/24, it remains the world’s second most popular destination. Its one-year master’s programs, two-year Graduate Route for post-study work, Chevening Scholarships, and iconic universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial make it a powerful draw. Adding to that, Prodigy Finance has partnered with various top UK universities to waive deposit requirements, a big relief for students managing the high costs of study abroad.

Germany is another rising favourite, hosting 469,485 international students in 2023/24. Its no- or low-tuition model and transparent visa process are a huge advantage. While long-term work opportunities often require German language skills, students who prepare early see it as a fair trade for affordable, world-class education.

Having said that Harvard remains a top choice, but students now weigh other factors too  costs, visas, and long-term opportunities. The question has shifted from “Which is the most prestigious?” to “Which path will actually help me build the future I want?