The United States has issued a firm warning to Nigerian students studying in America: missing classes or abandoning your studies could cost you your visa.
The notice came via an official post from the US Mission in Nigeria on Monday, August 4, through its X (formerly Twitter) handle.
“If you drop out, skip classes, or leave your programme of study without informing your school, your student visa may be revoked, and you may lose eligibility for future US visas,” the post read.
It ended with a reminder: “Always adhere to the terms of your visa and maintain your student status to avoid any issues.”
The warning has stirred conversations online, especially among prospective and current F-1 and M-1 student visa holders.
Students Must Maintain Full Academic Load — US Embassy
The US embassy also issued an update on its website, stressing that international students must attend all classes and show consistent academic progress.
“Maintain a full course of study each term. If you cannot study full time, contact your DSO immediately,” the statement read. “You may be eligible for a reduced course load in limited circumstances.”
DSO refers to the Designated School Official—students must notify them before making any academic changes.
Failure to comply with these rules could result in automatic visa termination, even if the student remains in the US.
Is this strict enough to deter unserious students, or those using a study visa merely as a means to ‘japa’? What do you think?US Cracks Down on Birth Tourism
This isn’t the first time the US Mission has warned Nigerians about visa misuse.
In July, it cautioned against travelling to the US with the intention of giving birth—a practice known as birth tourism.
“Travelling for the primary purpose of giving birth in the US to obtain citizenship for the child is considered visa misuse,” the embassy warned.
It added that consular officers are now more likely to deny visa applications from those suspected of this intent.
Visa laws remain strict. Applicants and holders are expected to fully understand and follow the terms they agreed to during issuance.
For more information, visit the US Mission Nigeria’s website.
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