US could see 70-80% drop in Indian student arrivals this year: Reports
The United States, a popular destination for Indian students seeking higher education, is facing a significant crisis in student visa applications. Reports suggest that Indian students’ arrival at US universities could dip by a staggering 70-80% this year, amidst the ongoing freeze in visa appointment slots and a sudden spike in visa rejection rates. Education consultants are sounding the alarm, citing the difficulties faced by students in securing visas, despite having applied as early as March.
The crisis is attributed to the ongoing pandemic and the subsequent changes in immigration policies, which have led to a surge in visa rejection rates. According to reports, even students who have a spotless social media record are facing rejection, leaving them with few options but to explore alternative destinations for higher education.
The US has been a preferred choice for Indian students, with over 200,000 students enrolled in American institutions in 2020. However, the recent developments have created uncertainty and anxiety among students, parents, and education consultants alike.
Education consultants are warning that the 70-80% drop in Indian student arrivals is not an exaggeration, and the situation is likely to worsen if the current trend continues. “We have seen a significant increase in visa rejections, and the situation is becoming more challenging by the day,” said a leading education consultant. “Students who applied as early as March are facing rejection, and it’s not just the usual suspects who are being rejected. Even students with a clean social media record are facing issues.”
The consultant attributed the crisis to the ongoing pandemic and the subsequent changes in immigration policies. “The pandemic has led to a surge in visa applications, which has put a strain on the system. The US government has also introduced new restrictions and requirements, which are making it difficult for students to secure visas,” the consultant explained.
The situation is not only affecting Indian students but also the US universities, which rely heavily on international students for revenue. “The decline in Indian student arrivals will have a significant impact on US universities, which are already facing financial challenges due to the pandemic,” said a university official.
In an effort to address the crisis, the US government has introduced new measures, including the creation of additional visa appointment slots and the relaxation of certain requirements. However, education consultants are skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures, citing the ongoing delays and rejections.
In the meantime, Indian students are exploring alternative destinations for higher education, including Canada, Australia, and the UK. “We are seeing a surge in interest in these countries, and students are opting for them due to the ease of visa application and the quality of education,” said another education consultant.
The crisis is a wake-up call for the US government, which needs to take immediate action to address the issue. Education consultants are urging the government to introduce measures to simplify the visa application process and reduce the rejection rates.
In conclusion, the 70-80% drop in Indian student arrivals at US universities is a significant crisis that requires immediate attention. The US government needs to take steps to address the issue, including simplifying the visa application process and reducing the rejection rates. Until then, Indian students will continue to face uncertainty and anxiety, and the US universities will continue to suffer the consequences.
