4 min readNew DelhiApr 12, 2025 09:41 AM IST
First published on: Apr 10, 2025 at 05:00 PM IST
International students in the United States are facing increased scrutiny following Donald Trump’s return to power. Amid tighter immigration policies and enforcement, students may risk losing their visas if found in violation of certain rules. If you’re currently studying in the US or planning to do so, it’s important to be aware of the actions that can lead to the cancellation of your student visa. Here are some key offenses every international student should avoid.
The student is granted a visa based on their education. For instance, the US Department of State issues F-1 visas to international students enrolled in more traditional academic programmes; on the other hand, M-1 visas are given to those students who are enrolled in vocational programmes. Any offense mentioned below can lead to the termination of the study visa through which a student should promptly leave the country.
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–A student should enter the United States no more than 30 days before the start of the programme.
–A student has to inform the designated school official (DSO) about their arrival. If a student faces any issues in the University, they will have to connect with the DSO.
–In case a student wants an extension, he or she will have to connect with DSO before the programme ends.
–An F student visa holder can only work when authorised by the University’s DSO in some cases and US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in others.
–After the completion of the programme, an F visa international student has 60 days to leave the country, while an M visa holder has 30 days, as stated by the US Department.
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It is pertinent to note that the decision to revoke a US visa can originate from the country’s State Department in Washington, DC or with the consular officer at a consulate.
–A visa holder can be called back by the consulate on three grounds:
A. Any security, criminal, medical, financial or other grounds
B. If the holder of a non-immigrant visa is not entitled because he or she does not meet the criteria
C. If a potential reason for inadmissibility or ineligibility, usually involving law enforcement, is suspected
–Other reasons for visa revocation are DUI (driving under the influence), DWI (driving while intoxicated), false information or documents, overstaying or domestic abuse/assault.
— In case a student drops out of the academic programme without informing DSO, this can lead to termination of the visa as it violates visa rules, mentioned the US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
–An F-1 student visa holder is not allowed to work in the country without authorization. In case, they are found, they will be forced to leave the country and will not be able to re-enter the United States at a later date.
–If a student is maintaining a poor academic record or there are any disciplinary reasons, his or her visa can be terminated.
–If a student is facing any financial issues and is unable to fund the education and living expenses in the country, the visa can be withdrawn.
Other issues that can result in the withdrawal of a US study visa are failure to report changes in the address, participation in protest, and traffic violations, among others.
Any offence mentioned can lead to the termination of the study visa through which a student should promptly leave the country. (Image: Unsplash\ Demure Storyteller) 
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