Confusion Over Visa Slots, Rising Rejections Leave Students Anxious and Seeking Alternatives.
Indian students aspiring to study in the United States are facing an unprecedented visa crisis, with education consultants reporting a 70–80% decline in student departures this year.
The problem stems from frozen visa appointment slots, unexplained delays in confirmation, and a spike in visa rejection rates, leaving thousands of students uncertain about their academic future.
Visa Slot Chaos Leaves Students Stranded
- Normally, by this time of year, most students have completed visa interviews and are preparing to travel.
- But this year, students are constantly refreshing online portals, hoping for open slots.
- Even when slots appear, confirmation emails are missing, creating further uncertainty.
Sanjeev Rai from Hyderabad Overseas Consultant told The Leading News Portal of India:
“It’s the worst in years. By now, most students would be ready to fly. Instead, they’re still waiting for slots.”
Ankit Jain from Window Overseas Education Consultancy suggested that the US might be testing its visa systems, which is causing confusion among applicants.
Students Now Looking to Europe
The delays are prompting students to explore other destinations.
- A 23-year-old student, who had planned a master’s in automotive engineering, said: “I couldn’t wait any longer and risk losing a year. I decided to withdraw my US application and am now looking at Germany.”
- Germany and other European nations are becoming popular alternatives as the uncertainty continues.
Visa Rejections on the Rise
Even students who secured early interview appointments are now facing unusually high rejection rates.
- Many have been denied under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act, which applies when:
✅ The applicant fails to prove strong ties to their home country.
✅ There’s insufficient evidence they’ll return after their studies.
Ankit Jain noted:
“Students with clean social media and strong academic profiles are still being turned away. Everyone is getting the same 214(b) reason.”
Consultants Warn of “Thousands of Shattered Dreams”
- Arvind Manduva from I20 Fever Consultancy said panic calls from students and parents are increasing daily.
- “We’re seeing an 80% drop. If slots aren’t released soon, thousands of dreams will be shattered,” he warned.
What Are US Authorities Saying?
The US Consulate General in Hyderabad has claimed that visa slots have resumed and advised students to:
- Keep checking the embassy website for updates.
- Apply as early as possible.
- Prepare for longer processing times.
A spokesperson explained:
“We’re fully vetting visa applicants to ensure they don’t pose risks to the US and intend to abide by their visa terms.”
Why Is This Happening Now?
- Ravi Lothumalla from US Admission, an immigration consulting firm in Dallas, explained that the rules and vetting processes aren’t new.
- What’s new is stricter enforcement and deeper scrutiny under the current administration.
India’s Growing Student Exodus
- In 2023, India overtook China as the top sender of students to the US, with over 3.3 lakh students enrolled.
- According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), as of January 1, 2024, more than 11.6 lakh Indian students were studying abroad.
- Europe’s popularity is rising, with countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and France offering affordable tuition and easier visas.
Key Takeaways
✅ Visa slots remain limited, causing widespread anxiety among Indian students.
✅ Rejection rates are soaring, with many denied under Section 214(b).
✅ Europe is emerging as an alternative, with students unwilling to lose academic years.
✅ The US Consulate urges early applications but warns of additional scrutiny.
Disclaimer : This report is based on statements from education consultants, students, and US consular officials. Visa policies are subject to change, and students are advised to check official embassy updates for accurate information.
