Kenya, Ghana Lead African Surge in US F-1 Student Visas in 2023, Nigeria Tops List
The US Department of State has been broadcasting the fact that they issued more visas out of Africa in 2023 than ever before. While this is great news, our team continues to monitor the visa refusal rates. 2023 saw a slight uptick in refusals for the continent on average, but also saw improvements in several countries. This is good news for the growing demand of international students in Africa looking to study abroad.
Recent data analysis by ApplyBoard has unveiled a significant uptick in the issuance of F-1 student visas from African countries to the United States in 2023, showcasing a burgeoning trend in educational migration. Nigeria, maintaining its position, continues to contribute the largest contingent of African students in the US. However, Kenya and Ghana have emerged as frontrunners in the growth rate, marking a pivotal shift in the dynamics of international education between Africa and the United States.
Sweeping Changes to ‘Einstein Visa’ Favor STEM Innovators and Professionals
The administration and the US State Department have been quietly making improvements to visa processes for international students and have focused on providing more opportunities. As we all know, they expanded 22 new STEM fields that qualify for STEM OPT, they have added OPT to premium process, and now are making changes to the EB visa. While this doesn’t directly impact all our students, it is another indication that this administration is continually looking for ways to attract and retain the world’s best and brightest.
With this move, the Biden Administration signals its continued commitment to harnessing global innovation to maintain the U.S.’s competitive edge — a key priority of the administration’s immigration policy. Other innovations have included streamlining visa procedures for skilled workers, such as expanding science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training programs and providing guidance on O-1A nonimmigrant extraordinary ability visas.
Countdown to Ramadan: A Guide for International Students on Embracing the Holy Month Away from Home
With Ramadan fast approaching, this article provides some helpful insights and tips for international students who are studying abroad. Planning one’s day is an essential tool to create a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Ramadan is approaching in less than a week, and as an international student, I am sure many others are filled with anticipation and excitement.
Mainly because this month acts as a reset button for many of us, there were still many things I found difficult to do on my own for the first time last year during this sacred time. From home-cooked meals to shared prayers and gatherings with loved ones, amongst many other things, I found myself reminiscing. Yet, I still managed to find a way around my worries.
