Read the full report.

STUDY OVERVIEW 

Coming to the USA is a life-changing experience for many international Indian students, offering numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, this transition is often fraught with challenges, including a lack of proper guidance and support during difficult times. Indian Muslim students, in particular, are drawn to the U.S. for its freedom of speech and the ability to practice their beliefs openly—freedoms that are sometimes restricted in India. Despite these opportunities, they face significant hurdles such as difficulty finding on-campus jobs or internships without referrals, exclusion from Indian Student Association clubs and other student organizations, and challenges in securing accommodations. Addressing these challenges is crucial for helping Indian Muslim students thrive academically and personally during their time in the USA.

Funded by the Indian American Muslim Council with logistical and research support from the Center of Muslim Experience in the United States, a student researcher was hired during the spring 2024 semester to document the experiences of Indian Muslim students enrolled at Arizona State University. The survey collected responses from Indian Muslim students, covering a range of questions about their demographics, academic pursuits, motivations, challenges, and interests. Both quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed to identify key trends and insights.

Who Participated in the Study?

The study aimed to explore the experiences of 60 Indian Muslim students at Arizona State University (ASU), focusing on their demographics, motivations for studying abroad, and challenges related to religion and culture. The survey included multiple-choice, Likert-scale, and open-ended questions to gather quantitative and qualitative data.

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS 

Indian Muslim international students at Arizona State University, and across the United States, face particular challenges unique to their social and cultural backgrounds. Because of religious, cultural, and (often) political differences, they are disconnected from the Indian Student Association, dominated by Hindus. In addition, while religiously connected, they also often feel less at home with the Muslim Student Association, where many members are American-born and where there are many Arabs as well. Subtle differences make it difficult for Indian Muslim students to find a sense of belonging on campus.

Differences among Indian Muslims themselves, who originate from a diversity of regions across India, speaking different languages compound differences with existing organizations. To meet these particular challenges of the unique status of Indian Muslim students at ASU, the following recommendations are suggested:

• Establishment of halal food options on campus, particularly with South Asian cuisine;
• Support for networking and guidance of new Indian Muslim students and other international students for obtaining on-campus jobs and professional summer internships;
• An office to identify and work with the university community to address issues of Islamophobia and the particular discrimination that Indian Muslims may face in light of the political situation in India;
• Support of the activities of the newly established Indian Muslim Student Group.

Respondents originate from various parts of India. These demographics highlight the diversity within the Indian Muslim student community at ASU, indicating a need for inclusive policies and support services that cater to various backgrounds.