US Student Visa Rejections Soar for Telangana & Andhra Pradesh Applicants
US Visa Denials Hit 20-Year High for Students from Telangana & Andhra Pradesh
In a shocking turn of events, over half of the student visa applications from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are being denied by US authorities, marking the highest rejection rate in two decades. Even students admitted to prestigious Ivy League universities are facing unexpected refusals, sending ripples of concern through the student community and study-abroad consultants alike.
Unprecedented Visa Denials Spark Concern
For years, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have been leading contributors to the Indian student diaspora in the United States. However, recent reports from Hyderabad-based ‘study abroad’ consultants indicate a drastic increase in rejection rates.
“January intake was the worst season for us. The upcoming summer intake is showing similar trends,” revealed Arvind Manduva from I20 Fever, a registered study abroad consultancy.
Visa officers are now rejecting applications without providing specific reasons, leaving students and consultants puzzled. A careful review of denied applications suggests that even minor discrepancies in personal details, education history, or supporting documents could be grounds for refusal. Historically, such minor errors were overlooked if major documentation was in order, but a shift in policy ahead of a potential “Trump 2.0” administration appears to be tightening visa scrutiny.
US Visa Rejection Rates on the Rise
A recent US government report disclosed that in the 2023-24 academic year, 6.79 lakh F-1 visa applications were filed, out of which 2.79 lakh (41%) were rejected. Indian students formed a significant portion of these denials, further fueling anxiety among prospective applicants.
“While the number of students considering studying abroad remains steady, many are now hesitant. They are exploring alternative destinations such as the UK and Germany. Within the UK, London is no longer the default choice, with Wales and Scotland emerging as preferred destinations,” stated Sahas Yuvraj from Way2 Abroad Consultancy.
Student Visa Overstays Contribute to Rejections
An additional factor influencing visa denials is the growing concern over student visa overstays. According to a report submitted by the US Department of Homeland Security to Congress for the fiscal year 2023, approximately 7,081 Indian students overstayed their visas. Many of them struggled to secure employment, leading to visa status violations and ultimately, illegal stays in the country.
“The US government is now taking strict measures to filter out potential overstays, making the visa approval process more rigid,” explained Chirandeep Patnaik of Lemma One Consultancy.
Uncertain Future for Indian Students
Despite the setbacks, Indian students continue to aspire for higher education in the United States. However, growing visa restrictions and global political instability are making many reconsider their choices.
“It feels like international students are being discouraged from applying. I was excited about studying abroad, but now, my enthusiasm has faded,” shared a BTech student from Hyderabad who is set to graduate in May.
Responding to these concerns, the United States Consulate issued a statement reiterating its commitment to national security and public safety through the visa process. The statement also highlighted the significant growth in the number of Indian students in the US during the 2023-24 academic year, positioning India as the top sender of international students.