With the fall semester just around the corner, Indian students planning to study in the US are facing serious issues. Many are struggling to get visa appointments, and those who do manage to get interviews are seeing a sharp increase in visa rejections. As a result, experts say there could be a 70% drop in Indian students going to American universities this year.
What’s Happening?
Normally, by this time of year, students have already completed their visa interviews and are getting ready to fly. But this year, many are still waiting and constantly checking the appointment portal, hoping for slots to open. “It’s the worst situation we’ve seen in years,” said Sanjeev Rai from Hyderabad Overseas Consultant.
Confusion and Stress
Earlier, US authorities promised that more visa slots would be made available in stages. But students and consultants say the process has been unclear and stressful. Some slots did appear briefly, but many who booked them haven’t received any confirmation yet. “It feels like a test run by the US, but it’s causing panic,” said Ankit Jain from Window Overseas Education Consultancy.
Because of the uncertainty, some students are withdrawing their applications and looking at other countries instead, like Germany. “I couldn’t risk losing a whole year, so I chose to apply elsewhere,” said a 23-year-old student from Hyderabad.
Rejection Rates Go Up
Even students who applied months ago and got appointments are now facing more rejections. Most of the rejected applications are being turned down under visa section 214B, which means the student didn’t convince the interviewer that they will return to India after studying.
Ankit Jain added that even students with clean records and strong applications are being denied. “It’s strange. Everything looked fine, but still they’re being rejected.”
Last year, over 3.3 lakh Indian students went to the US—more than from any other country. This visa issue is now putting thousands of dreams on hold. “We are seeing nearly an 80% drop in confirmed students. Every day, we’re getting calls from panicked students and parents,” said Arvind Manduva from I20 Fever consultancy.
Read more: What Is America’s U Visa Program and Why It’s Being Criticized by US Immigration Authorities
What Officials Are Saying
Ravi Lothumalla from a US-based immigration firm said the rules aren’t new—just being followed more strictly now. “This is probably a way to filter out applicants.”
Meanwhile, the US Consulate General in Hyderabad confirmed that visa slots have resumed and advised applicants to check their website regularly. A spokesperson said they are working hard to carefully review visa applications and ensure applicants are genuine. They also encouraged students to apply early and be prepared for delays.
Also See: US Warns Indians: Visa Approved Doesn’t Mean You’re Safe from Deportation
Due to visa slot shortages and high rejection rates, thousands of Indian students are at risk of missing out on studying in the US this fall. While officials say the process is still ongoing, many students are left anxious and unsure about their future.
