Visa Denials Top List of Challenges for U.S. English Language Teaching Providers
US Visa
PC: Rosalind Chang
Visa denials have emerged as the most pressing challenge for U.S. English Language Teaching (ELT) providers, significantly affecting student enrollment and post-pandemic recovery.
A 2024 survey conducted by EnglishUSA and research firm BONARD revealed that nearly two-thirds (64%) of ELT centers identified student visa refusals as their primary concern in 2023.
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The F-1 student visa, which accounted for 54% of ELT enrollments last year, is at the center of the issue. Other visa categories including B-1/B-2 visitor visas and ESTA travel authorizations have also faced heightened scrutiny, contributing to rising rejection rates.
Key source countries such as Brazil, Turkey, and Colombia have seen notable drops in student numbers due to visa challenges. The average visa refusal rate in 2023 stood at 24%, with some institutions reporting even higher figures.
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In light of these findings, EnglishUSA has called for policy reforms aimed at streamlining visa processing and providing clearer guidance to both applicants and institutions. The organization says such measures are crucial to supporting international students and sustaining the recovery of the ELT sector.
Prospective students are advised to work closely with accredited institutions and education agents to better navigate the evolving U.S. visa landscape.
