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Visa Delays Could Cut Indian Student Arrivals to US by 70% This Fall

Limited appointment availability paired with high rejection rates under Section 214B is prompting applicants to explore study options outside the US

Overview

  • Hyderabad consultants forecast up to a 70% decline in Indian enrollments due to frozen visa slots and intensified vetting protocols
  • The US Consulate General in Hyderabad has resumed slot releases but warned applicants to apply early and expect extended processing times
  • A surge in denials under Section 214B has hit many clean-profile candidates who are unable to demonstrate sufficient home-country ties
  • Persistent scheduling uncertainty is driving some students to withdraw US applications and pursue alternatives such as Germany
  • American universities warn the sharp downturn could undermine enrollment targets and strain revenue forecasts for the fall semester