What to Do if Your Student Visa Is Denied

The process of applying to study in the USA is a long but rewarding process. Sometimes there can be disappointing hurdles in the process such as being rejected from your choice of school or, more importantly, being denied a student visa. If you’re denied a student visa, there is help to get your student visa to study in the USA.

First, it’s important to know that there is no appeal process if you are denied a student visa. Fortunately, you can reapply and submit a new application, but you will have to pay the nonrefundable application fee of $160 again for each new application. It is crucial not to falsify or submit fraudulent documentation as this may jeopardize your chances of applying for any immigration status in the USA.

Once you have been denied your student visa, ask your consular officer the exact reason as to why your visa was denied. If the reason you were denied is a fixable problem, then reapply making sure you resolved the exact issue that caused your denial in the first application. Some common reasons that student visas are denied are:

  • Lack of financial proof to support the student’s education and life in the USA
  • Missing or incorrect documents
  • The consular officer is not convinced or does not have documented proof of the student’s intention to their home country after completion of education
  • Failed background check
  • Behavior during interview or failure to explain answers to the consular officer

On occasion, there is no reason given as to why the student visa is denied.

With immigration laws fluctuating very rapidly, it’s encouraged to check the U.S. Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs for any new updates on laws or executive orders that may affect your ability to apply for a student visa.

Students are able to re-apply three times within a year. If you are struggling with getting your student visa approved, it’s recommended that you consult with your consular officers or an immigration attorney.

Brianna Burrows is a freelance marketing specialist and alumna of Northeastern University. She specializes in event management, social media management, and content branding. Follow her on Twitter here.