Denials of visa applications are extremely rare but do occur. Denials are often based on the applicant's presumed intent for visiting the United States differing from the intent corresponding to the visa classification. This type of denial is referred to as a visa denial by a consular officer under Section 214(b). For example, an international student who is applying for an F-1 student visa may be judged by the consular officer as having an intent to visit the United States other than academic study.
If you are applying for a visa outside of your home country and are denied, it is advised that you return to your home country if you choose to re-apply.
When a visa denial occurs, you should request from the consulate or embassy a written denial notice with an explanation of the reason for denial and provide a copy to ISSS, so that an ISSS advisor can review and assist you if you choose to re-apply. If you are a new student or exchange visitor beginning your academic program at The New School, please follow the I-20/DS-2019 application instructions regarding a visa denial.
Please also keep in mind that the fee that you paid to the U.S. embassy or consulate is a visa application fee. Everyone who applies for a U.S. visa anywhere in the world must pay this fee, which covers the cost of processing your application. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether or not you are issued a visa. If you choose to re-apply, whether at the same embassy or elsewhere, you will still be required to pay the application fee.
It is also possible, though extremely rare, for a U.S. visa to be revoked. If this occurs, the visa is no longer valid even if the expiration date is in the future. If your visa is revoked and you are already in the United States maintaining F or J status, you do not need to renew your visa to remain in the United States. However, if you travel abroad, you will have to renew your visa to re-enter the United States and may face additional scrutiny when re-applying.
To avoid visa revocation, international students and exchange visitors are advised to maintain status and obey all U.S. laws for the duration of their stay.
Please be advised that ISSS does not assist with visa applications other than F or J for incoming or current international students and exchange visitors at The New School.