US Student Visa Applications Open Amid Fresh Talks On Fixed-Term Visa Limits

As student visa season kicks off, the United States has once again opened its doors to aspiring international students, including thousands from India. But while the State Department is welcoming applications, a parallel discussion in Washington may soon reshape how long those students can stay.

Speaking to ANI last week, US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Mignon Houston confirmed that student visa applications are now open and encouraged students to begin the process. She struck a supportive tone, but also emphasised the importance of aligning visa usage with the original purpose of study.

“We want students to understand that we want to see a use of that visa that is in line with their application. Students come to the United States to study — not to obstruct classrooms or vandalise campuses,” said Houston. She also added that national security remains a key factor in all visa-related decisions, not only to protect American citizens but also international students themselves.

But just as students begin to plan their journeys, a policy from the past is making a quiet return.

According to a Bloomberg report, the Trump administration is revisiting a 2020-era proposal that sought to replace the current “duration of status” policy with fixed-term student visas. That draft rule is now under final review by the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs.

Under the current policy, students on F-1 and exchange visitors on J-1 visas can stay in the U.S. for as long as their program lasts, with no need to reapply midway. The flexibility has long been credited with making the U.S. a top choice for international education.

The earlier Trump-era proposal, however, pushed for fixed visa durations — typically two or four years — based on the student’s country of origin or field of study. The plan was widely criticised by universities and education advocates who feared that added bureaucracy could interrupt students’ academic paths. Eventually, the proposal was shelved in 2021 by the Biden administration.

Now, a draft bearing the same title is back on the table and while details remain under wraps, the potential for similar limits has stirred concern.

Karan Gupta, an education consultant and career counsellor, believes the renewed discussion reflects a desire to tighten immigration oversight, but notes it doesn’t necessarily have to be a setback.

“A fixed-term visa brings clarity. It defines the student’s timeline and can encourage better planning,” Gupta said. “While the “duration of status” model has its flexibility, it also leaves room for ambiguity and potential overstays. A fixed-term approach, if implemented with provisions for legitimate extensions, can promote responsible planning without disadvantaging international students.”

He added that Indian students remain highly interested in studying in the U.S., drawn by its academic reputation and post-study job opportunities. “As long as the process is transparent, it shouldn't be a dealbreaker. In fact, clearer timelines might help families make stronger financial and logistical plans,” he said.

Gupta further added, “while there may possibly be additional steps like applying for an extension during the course of study, these are manageable with proper guidance. Most countries already have fixed-duration student visas, and students navigate those systems successfully.”

While the proposed rule hasn’t been finalised, it signals that changes could be ahead. For now, U.S. visa applications remain open, and officials are urging students to apply in line with the purpose for which the visa was granted.

As Houston reiterated, the U.S. continues to view India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific, a relationship that includes education, trade, and hopes to maintain strong people-to-people ties, especially through academic exchange.

Whether the visa rules change or not, one thing is clear: the U.S. continues to be a preferred destination for ambitious students from India and many are watching Washington closely.

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