Goa, July 19 -- Indian student departures to the United States have plunged by nearly 70%, education consultants report, amid growing uncertainty over visa appointments and a spike in rejection rates under the Trump-era visa policies that continue to impact international students.

Consultants in Hyderabad say the usual rush of outbound traffic to U.S. universities has drastically slowed this year, primarily due to a persistent freeze in visa appointment slots and a lack of clarity from U.S. authorities.

"By this time, most students are typically done with their visa interviews and busy preparing to fly," said Sanjeev Rai of Hyderabad Overseas Consultant. "This year, we're refreshing the portal daily hoping for a slot. It's the worst we'...