Thousands of Indian students aspiring to begin their higher education in the United States this Fall are in panic mode as massive visa delays and appointment shortages continue to derail their academic plans. Despite the resumption of F-1 student visa interviews on June 26, students are struggling to find available slots at U.S. consulates across India.
Education consultants and students alike have described the situation as chaotic, with appointment slots getting filled within seconds of opening. Many students have already paid hefty non-refundable tuition fees, hostel deposits, and booked international flights, making the situation financially and emotionally stressful. Some families report potential losses between ₹12 lakh to ₹35 lakh if their children are forced to defer admissions or cancel plans.
The delays come after a month-long freeze in visa processing, caused by a combination of high demand, limited consulate staffing, and stricter screening procedures. While the U.S. embassy had promised an increase in interview slots, no official announcement has been made about any bulk release before the academic year begins in August.
Students who have received I-20 forms (university acceptance) are now desperately applying for emergency visa appointments, though approvals are limited and unpredictable. Those with internship offers or deadlines are especially anxious, with some even exploring education options in Canada, the UK, or Australia as backup plans.
Education experts warn that this disruption could not only affect student careers but also impact U.S. universities, many of which rely on Indian international students for enrollment and diversity. Parents and students have urged Indian authorities to intervene diplomatically to ease the situation.
For now, the uncertainty continues, with time running out for students hoping to fly to the U.S. before their courses begin.
