8k students to go to US for higher studies this year
Times of India | 14 June 2024
Kolkata: There are adequate visa appointment slots available for students applying for undergraduate or post graduate courses in colleges and universities in America, US consul general in Kolkata Melinda Pavel said on Thursday on the sidelines of the Student Visa Day organised at the American Center for US-bound students.
Around 100 students and their families participated in the event designed to put the youngsters travelling to study in a foreign country at ease and answer queries that they or their parents may have on life on and off the campus.
“Thousands of students from the east and the northeast will become part of the larger delegation of Indian students this year in the US. As you join vibrant campuses known for fostering democratic values, open dialogue, and personal growth, you become the newest link in the thriving friendship between our nations, contributing to a transformative experience that extends beyond the classroom and equips you for success in a global landscape. There will be many who are curious about India but many do not know how to ask questions as they may be afraid of causing an embarrassment or may not be sure if a question will be viewed as being too personal. I would urge each one of you to find ways to tell your stories as these conversations will open up doors to friendships that you will cherish for a lifetime,” Pavek told the assembled students.
Later, the consul general said around 8,000 students are likely to travel to the US for higher education this year from this region. Last year, the US consular team in Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata issued over 1.4 lakh student visas.
“Indians are the second largest student community in the US. Of the 1 million students from across the world in the US, around 2.6 lakh are from India,” Pavek added.
US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti had recently emphasized the United States’ commitment to reducing visa processing times for Indian students. Garcetti revealed that US President Joe Biden has specifically instructed him to expedite the visa process for Indian students, indicating the high importance attached to this issue. “It’s the first time, I think, in American history that a President has told an ambassador to get the visa waiting times down,” he stated.