Drop out or skip classes? US embassy warns Indian and international students of visa revocation risks

The US embassy in India issued a stern warning to Indian and international students studying in the United States. Through a post on X at 11:28 IST on May 27, 2025, the embassy emphasized the importance of strictly following visa regulations, reminding students that failure to comply could lead to visa revocation and loss of eligibility for future US visas. The message came as a crucial reminder for thousands of students who pursue higher education in the US each year.The embassy’s advisory highlighted that maintaining student status is essential not only for continued study but also for securing future academic and professional opportunities in the United States. The post was accompanied by a graphic featuring the US embassy India logo, underscoring the seriousness of the message.The risks of non-compliance: Visa revocation and beyondThe embassy specifically pointed out actions that can jeopardize a student’s visa, such as dropping out, skipping classes, or leaving their program without notifying their school. “If you drop out, skip classes, or leave your program of study without informing your school, your student visa may be revoked,” the post warned. The consequences of these violations extend beyond immediate revocation; students may face significant challenges when applying for future US visas, potentially affecting their long-term academic and career plans.The warning aligns with the strict conditions imposed under the F-1 visa, which requires international students to maintain a full course load and regular attendance under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Violating these terms can result in removal from the program and jeopardize a student’s legal status in the country.Maintaining student status: A call to actionThe embassy urged students to “always adhere to the terms of your visa and maintain your student status to avoid any issues.” This means attending all classes, keeping up with academic progress, and promptly informing a Designated School Official (DSO) if any problems arise. Maintaining clear communication with school authorities is crucial to ensure that students remain compliant with visa rules.As the number of Indian students in the US continues to grow, this timely reminder from the US embassy serves as a vital safeguard for international students. It encourages them to remain vigilant about visa requirements, ensuring a smooth academic experience and protecting their future opportunities in the United States.