In a major shift, students from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are leading the way in obtaining US study visas. Data from the US Consulate in Hyderabad reveals that these two states contribute 56% of all Indian students heading to the United States for higher studies. Telangana tops the list with 34%, followed by Andhra Pradesh at 22%.
1.8 Lakh Students from Andhra and Telangana in the US
The numbers underline the growing trend of students from South India pursuing education abroad. Of the 3.30 lakh Indian students studying in America in 2023, 1.80 lakh are from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This surge highlights the region’s focus on global education opportunities.
Increased US Consulate Operations in Hyderabad
To handle the growing demand, the Hyderabad US Consulate has significantly ramped up its operations. The consulate now processes around 1,600 visas daily, with plans to increase this to 2,500 by early 2024. Staffing has doubled in the last 18 months, and further expansion is planned to ensure faster processing.
Record-Breaking Visa Interviews
Statistics show a significant rise in student visa interviews. In 2023, the Hyderabad consulate conducted 35,000 interviews for summer student visas. In 2024, over 47,000 interviews have already been conducted—a jump of 12,000 compared to the previous year.
H-1B Program Boosts Visa Renewals
The growing number of Indian students in the US is also linked to updates in the H-1B visa program. The Domestic Revalidation Program now allows Indian students to renew their visas within the US, eliminating the need to return home. In the past three months alone, 10,000 Indian H-1B visa holders have successfully renewed their visas without leaving the US.
These developments highlight America’s growing focus on accommodating Indian students and professionals, making it easier for them to pursue long-term opportunities in education and employment.
