Scores of schools and students reported an increase in student visa denials—nonimmigrant F-1, M-1, and J-1—this summer. This will likely impact 2018–19 overall enrollment numbers.
An obvious answer is to chalk this change up to today’s political climate. But that might not be the full story.
This shift may have to do with many students and their families making missteps during the complex application process, hurting their chances of approval. These missteps can include:
- submitting applications that are incomplete or for the wrong type of visa;
- not understanding that the application, fee payment, and interview scheduling websites are independent and do not interface with each other;
- not reporting accurate information, including prior travel or current home address;
- using mismatched photos on various forms; or
- submitting documents without the appropriate signatures.
Your school can and should prepare international students and their families for the visa application and interview process. Being proactive and serving as a guide can help students navigate the system successfully.
Use these tips when advising your students during the visa application process.
- The online visa application process may start only 120 days prior to the program start date. The student Form I-20 number is required at this time.
- The form DS-160 visa application confirmation barcode page must be printed out.
- All photos used on various forms must be current and match.
- The I-901 fee must be paid prior to the visa interview and the student must take the printed receipt with him or her.
- All documents must be originals.
- Students should be prepared to upload all documents electronically while originals are shared with embassy officials.
- Visa interviews in most areas may be made online in advance.
- During the visa interview, students must provide proof of acceptance to the school with an acceptance letter and school contract written on the correct letterhead.
- Students can check on their application status either online or at the embassy, depending on their location.
In the past, many schools left this process up to the students and families. However, because it is now more complex and multi-layered than ever before, it’s in your school’s best interest to help your accepted international students navigate the nonimmigrant student system properly. This helps give them their best chance for visa approval.
Offering advice and support can be a small shift that makes a big difference for your students. Be proactive to ensure they have a good experience with your school before even setting foot on your campus.
Additional ISM resources:
The Source for Private School News Vol. 17 No. 2 How Are Your International Students Adjusting?
The Source for Business and Operations Vol. 15 No. 6 Building an International Student Program Team
Additional ISM resources for Gold members:
I&P Vol. 42 No. 4 Your International Student Program, Part One
I&P Vol. 42 No. 5 Your International Student Program, Part Two
