In 2023, a total of 130,839 Indians were granted student visas for the United States. Explore the regulations for F1 Visas in 2024.
Key Points
- In 2023, 130,839 Indian students were granted US student visas, marking the second consecutive year of Indians receiving the highest number of US student visas.
- A total of 446,000 F-1 student visas were issued by the US in 2023, indicating an 8.5% increase compared to 2022.
- The US is renowned for its top-tier universities, offering rigorous academic standards and practical training, which attract students from around the globe.
- More than 200,000 Indian students aspire to pursue higher education in the US each year, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
Insights into F1 Visas:
- An F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa permitting students to attend educational institutions in the US, including universities, colleges, high schools, and language training programs.
- Indian students holding F-1 visas can engage in optional practical training (OPT) for up to 12 months, either before or after completing their graduate studies in STEM fields. They can also apply for an additional year of OPT when pursuing a higher-level secondary education degree.
- The allure of US education stems from its prestigious universities and rigorous academic standards, despite the high costs. F-1 visa holders are permitted to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week while maintaining full-time academic commitments.
- F-1 visas are valid for five years, during which students have the flexibility to switch or transfer academic programs.
Updates to F-1 Visa Regulations:
The USCIS announced revisions to the F-1 visa in September 2022:
- Students pursuing studies in STEM or related fields are eligible for a 24-month extension of their OPT program.
- F-1 visa holders can seek employers willing to sponsor their work visas.
- Students on F-1 visas can apply for an H-1B work visa by completing various forms for Employment Authorization and Requesting Premium Processing Service.
- Under the revised rules, the USCIS aims to process applications within 15 calendar days.