As important as education is, they can always borrow money (often with tax-deductible federal student loans) or even work for it.

FORBES: Is a 529 Plan Right For You?

Under rules that came in last month, employers and colleges must join an official register to sponsor work or student visas.

ECONOMIST: Pakistan and Britain

Asians, who have higher levels of education, mainly come legally on student visas or employment programs to work in sectors that are thriving, such as technology.

WSJ: Asians Top of the Immigration Class