Future of Over 7,000 Indian Students in North Carolina at Risk Amid US Visa Delays

By Aahana July 28, 2025
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More than 7,000 Indian students enrolled in North Carolina universities face an uncertain future as the United States grapples with student visa delays and heightened restrictions. A bipartisan group of 15 US lawmakers has written to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging swift action to address visa backlogs impacting Indian nationals ahead of the fall semester.

According to a report by The News & Observer, Indian students accounted for 29% of the international student population in North Carolina last year, overtaking Chinese students and representing the largest foreign student group. On a national scale, over 331,000 Indian nationals were studying in the US in 2024, making India the top source of international students.

The delay in visa processing comes as a critical concern with the academic term set to begin next month. Students from India, which has seen a sharp drop in visa issuance down by 43.5% in the first half of FY 2025 compared to the previous year are at risk of missing crucial enrolment deadlines.

The letter addressed to Rubio highlights that many students are struggling to secure visa appointments, potentially derailing their educational pursuits. US lawmakers stressed that Indian students contribute nearly $9 billion annually to the American economy and play a pivotal role in research and innovation.

In response, the Indian government has stepped up diplomatic efforts. The Ministry of External Affairs issued two statements last week, pressing the US Embassy and the Department of State to expedite student visa processing. While the US has committed to releasing a limited number of additional visa appointments through August, it also acknowledged constraints due to expanded vetting procedures.

As the fall semester approaches, thousands of Indian students in North Carolina, and across the US await clarity, hopeful that bilateral cooperation will prevent their academic dreams from being deferred.

Source: FINANCIAL EXPRESS

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