2007 Number of Student Visas Is the Highest in History

United States student visas provide more than just the opportunity to learn abroad, but they also offer the student a chance to experience awareness and the diversity of cultures. In 2007, a record high number of student visas issued was estimated by the United States Department of State to be over 600,000, which implies a 10% increase in the number over the past year. Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Maura Harty says that one of the best ways to know about the United States is to take the opportunity to study there.

According to Harty, the terrorist attacks of 9/11 in 2001 decreased the number of applications for various US visas as well as student visas. Because of this, the United States government planned on how to encourage foreigners to apply for visas, as well as offer the opportunity for international students to obtain an American education. The 2007 record number of issued student visas proves that the campaign was a success. An American education does not only have an impact on the students who are studying in the US, but it also reflects on how the development and futures of their respective countries will be assisted by these students.

Diversity, cultural awareness, international understanding, and alliances can be created by the influx of foreign students into the United States. The Department of State cited examples of current international leaders who have been products of US student exchange programs during their time. Kofi Annan, the United Nations Secretary General graduated from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. The incumbent president of Indonesia, Susilo Yudhoyono, studied in the Infantry School in Fort Benning, Georgia, as part of his military training. The president of the Republic of the Philippines, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, is also a product of US education, as she studied for two years in Georgetown University, Washington DC.

Maura Harty says that the US Department of State asks for three minimum requirements before a student is eligible for or granted a US student visa. He must present these in order for him to also gain the other benefits that accompany a student visa. The student should have evidence of being currently enrolled in a US university or college. Aside from that, the student should show proof of sufficient funds to pay for his first term or year of study in the said educational institution. Lastly, the student must have the intent to return to his home country after his schooling in the US.