While the number of Luxembourg nationals studying in the United States has grown in recent years, a shift in perception has become evident since the start of 2025.
This change was highlighted by the response to a recent video from the US Embassy in Luxembourg, which promoted a funded exchange opportunity for a young Luxembourger. The announcement was met largely with negative comments online, many focusing on current political and social conditions in the US.
Several established exchange programmes between Luxembourg and the US continue to operate. For example, students from the Junglinster secondary school have participated in regular exchanges with La Crosse, Wisconsin, for years. While the students themselves typically express little concern, organisers note that parents are increasingly voicing questions and apprehension.
Marc Zimer, who has a personal connection to the US from having lived there, observes that US hospitality remains unchanged. “The people there are still as friendly as ever”, he says, noting that the shift is largely administrative. US authorities, he explains, are now careful to classify such educational visits as a “trip” rather than an “exchange” upon entry.
Beyond secondary school exchanges, the US remains an academic destination. The number of Luxembourgers pursuing full-degree studies there has climbed over the past five years, with approximately 160 students currently enroled. Despite this increase, concerns persist among the student community, particularly following events last year. Many fear their student visas could be revoked, leading to deportation, if they express certain political opinions.
Coordination presents another challenge, as US universities have little direct collaboration with student representative bodies in Luxembourg. Consequently, these Luxembourgish associations maintain direct contact with their students abroad and continue to promote US opportunities at the annual student fair.
