The global recognition and perceived quality of international degrees have consistently motivated students to pursue education abroad. Over time, the number of Indian students studying abroad has steadily increased, with the United States alone recording a high of over 300,000 Indian students. However, the application process for studying in any foreign country involves several challenges, particularly obtaining a visa, which depends on various factors such as interviews and the justification for choosing a specific course. Recently, the U.S. has introduced changes to its visa interview process.
NDTV’s Ambika Singh Kahma speaks to Pragati Imam, a career counsellor and the founder of CollegeEdge, a boutique firm in Kolkata on how the F-1 visa policies have changed, what other countries students can choose to pursue their career and what are some of the alternative options students can take to secure an F-1 visa:The most significant recent change is a temporary halt on scheduling new F-1 visa interviews at U.S. consulates worldwide as the U.S. government expands social media vetting for international student applicants. Existing appointments will proceed, but no new ones will be scheduled until further notice.
Additionally, F-1 visa holders are now restricted from participating in study abroad programs longer than five months, even if they remain enrolled at their U.S. institution – a change from previous practice.
There are new expanded screening measures in place. All student visa applicants are now subject to enhanced social media vetting, which includes consular officers reviewing applicants’ social media posts. This expansion is part of a broader effort to increase national security and monitor political activity. Earlier also applicants have had to disclose their social media details, but the current review is more intensive.If your U.S. visa is rejected, you can reapply or consider top options abroad like Canada, the UK, Ireland, the EU, or Singapore. But don’t overlook India, which now boasts some of the best undergraduate programs in the world with strong industry connections, global exposure, and impressive placement records.Yes, students can pursue online courses or certifications from many U.S. universities. However, these do not grant the same campus experience or post-study work benefits as in-person programs, and some programs may have restrictions on international enrollment. But online credentials can still enhance your academic profile and career prospects.Visa issues like delays or denials may force students to defer admission, lose scholarships, or miss program start dates. The uncertainty and perceived risk of visa denial will also discourage academically talented students from even attempting to apply to U.S. institutions. Additionally, universities with curricula emphasizing international exposure must now reconsider or restructure such programs and this will reduce students’ access to global learning experiences.
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