American universities could see an unprecedented drop in Indian students due to continuing freeze in visa slots and spike in visa rejection as the fall semester comes close. Several Indian education consultants have told the media that approximately a 70 to 80 per cent drop might be observed in outbound traffic.
The common reason that most of the students are facing rejection seems to be 214B.
The ties between US and India remained quite strong over the years but after President Donald Trump escalated the crackdown on illegal immigration and escalated visa restrictions since he assumed the chair this year, the Indians students seem to face bigger challenges to clear their visas.
What Are Education Consultants Saying?
Sanjeev Rai from Hyderabad Overseas Consultant told the Times of India, "By this time usually, most students are done with their visa interviews and are preparing to fly. This year, we're still refreshing the portal every day hoping for a slot to open. It's the worst in years."
Ankit Jain from Window Overseas Education Consultancy reportedly said, "Even when a few slots opened midweek, those who managed to book haven't received confirmation" and added, "its possible the US authorities were testing the system."
"There's no logical reason to open a handful of slots without confirming bookings," he said.
Jain also mentioned, "Many students who usually would have had smooth approvals are being turned away. Their social media was also clean. The only reason that everyone seems to be receiving is 214B."
Meanwhile, Arvind Manduva from I20 Fever consultancy told the news outlet, "If slots aren't released in the next few days, thousands of dreams will be shattered. We are seeing about an 80 per cent drop. We're getting panic calls every day from students and their parents."
What Is 214B?
The Section 214B is a part of the United States Immigration and Nationality Act that is most commonly cited when a non-immigrant visa including F-1 student visa is denied.
The rejection could mean that the visa authority officials weren't assured that the candidate would return right after their visa expires, leading to potential spike in illegal immigrants that the country is 'suffering from', according to their president.
The candidates have to prove strong ties with their home country and a proper plan to return back within the visa limitations.
But this kind of rejection is not considered as a permanent roadblock for a foreign student applying in American universities, they can always reapply after making a stronger case.
A spokesperson from the US Consulate General Hyderabad was quoted saying, "We're working to fully vet visa applicants to ensure they do not intend to harm America or our interests, and that they credibly establish their eligibility for the visa sought, including that they intend to engage in activities consistent with the terms of their admission. We encourage applicants to apply as early as they can and to anticipate additional processing time for these visa categories."
As per reports, India sent over 3.3 lakh students to the United States in 2024.
The Ministry of External Affairs revealed that as of January 1, 2024, over 11.6 lakh Indian students were studying in foreign higher education institutions across the globe and they also noted that the number of students opting for Europe as a destination has risen.
