For many Indian students, studying in the United States represents years of hard work, financial investment, and hope. But sometimes, it’s not a university’s rejection that shatters the dream; it’s the decision of a visa officer.
In one such case, an engineering graduate who had secured admission to a top-15 American university to pursue a Master’s in Computer Science was denied an F-1 student visa, ending his dream of studying in the US.
The F-1 visa allows international students to pursue full-time education at accredited US institutions, provided they can prove their financial stability and intent to return home after graduation.
However, the student was rejected under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act — a provision allowing visa officers to deny applications if they believe the candidate may not return home.
Sharing his experience on Reddit, the student wrote, “I’ve spent enough time and resources chasing a fleeting dream. I’ve decided to keep working, prioritising my peace and self-respect over a degree.”
According to his post, he had an excellent academic record and two years of professional experience. Initially accepted for the Fall 2025 intake, he deferred to Spring 2026 due to delays caused by a backlog in F-1 visa processing. When his turn finally came, he spent three hours in line before being informed that his visa was denied.
“For a so-called officer to say I’m ‘ineligible’ to study in the US after making me stand in line for three hours felt pretty bad,” he wrote.
He expressed frustration with what he described as a “subjective and arbitrary” system, where decisions depend more on an officer’s impression than a student’s merit.
“A bright student trying to get a good education is being denied an opportunity just because the VO wasn’t feeling bonita,” he added sarcastically.
The student also suggested reforms such as requiring officers to provide detailed reasons for rejections, introducing an appeal process, and allowing written statements of purpose instead of short interviews.
Ultimately, the student decided not to reapply, citing growing xenophobia, limited job prospects, and tightening US visa rules.
“I’ve chosen to stay back and keep working. My peace and self-respect mean more to me than a degree,” he concluded.
