If you are an Indian student planning to study in the US, you might be wondering about the latest news and updates on the student visa process. Here are some of the key points you should know:

• The US Mission to India will open the first batch of appointments for the upcoming student visa season in mid-May 2023. Additional appointments will be released later in the season. You should prepare for your appointments and stay tuned for more announcements on the US Embassy website.

• The US government has recently extended the visa waiver scheme for in-person interviews until December 31, 2023. This scheme applies to some students, professors, research associates, specialists, and others who previously got any type of visa, and who have never been refused a visa unless such refusal was overcome or waived, and who have no apparent ineligibility or potential ineligibility. For some first-time F, M, and academic J applicants who are citizens or nationals of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), in-person interviews can also be waived as long as they have no apparent ineligibility or potential ineligibility and have previously visited the US using a permit obtained through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

• The US student visa fees have been hiked by 15.5%. The new rates are effective from May 30, 2023. The fee for F and M visas has increased from $160 to $185, while the fee for J visas has increased from $160 to $190.

These are some of the most recent updates regarding the US student visa process for Indian students. As always, it is crucial to consult official websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information before applying for your visa. We wish you the best of luck in your pursuit of higher education in the United States!