U.S. Ambassador affirms strong commitment to Indian students

February 16, 2011 | New Delhi

U.S. Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer underscored the commitment of the U.S. to proudly welcome foreign students and to assure that they have the most positive and constructive experience possible. The Ambassador remarked, "The U.S. is very proud to host the more than 100,000 Indian students studying in America - these students are an important and contributing part of the American academic community. As a father, I understand the joy of seeing a child focus on their studies and succeed - and as the U.S. representative in India, I ensure that my team is fully committed to helping students make the best informed educational decisions possible."

"We are working closely with the Indian Government on the issue of Tri-Valley University and ensuring the fair and appropriate treatment of Indian students. Moreover, there are many resources publicly available to help students educate themselves on the dangers of predatory visa fraud rings and to protect them from committing visa fraud. Visa fraud has universally harmful effects, whether it is committed by Americans or Indians, and can diminish opportunities for other aspiring students. It is wrong to fraudulently exploit the hopes and dreams of young students for financial gain and it is important that all prospective students take advantage of the free resources offered to them by the Embassy and fully research the academic options available to them."

For several years, the U.S. Embassy has regularly held open, widely publicized and well-attended information sessions across India in order to help prospective students, university officials and parents protect themselves from becoming victims of visa fraud. All students wishing to study in the U.S. are strongly encouraged to attend these free seminars. The Embassy also frequently offers online webchats for students unable to physically attend a seminar.

Educational seminars are hosted by the U.S.-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) at various locations around the country. More information and seminar schedules are available at www.usief.org.in. Students may also take advantage of USIEF's extensive educational advising resources.

Visa applicants from any location may email infousdelhi@vfshelpline.com at any time for free and accurate visa information direct from the source, or visit the U.S. Embassy's website at http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov.