I would like to clarify your statement-
The most common reasons that students are denied entry to the US are:
1. Criminal history
2. Affiliation with undesirable groups
3. Flight risks - ie use Visa as a way to get in and stay in the US
4. Previous entry denied for abusing the system
5. Not being able to provide evidence of funds required for the course of training.
An example of number 3 is a student who obtained an M1 visa to go to a flight school in California. For the duration of the visa (1 year) the student obtained a mere 91 flight hours and no pilot certificates. This is what the US Embassy are trying to avoid. The student enters the country to study and then abuses the sytem. What was the student doing for the year?
This same student just applied for another M1 visa and was denied. The student does not comprehend why
We all assume that this is just the US, however, have you ever heard the experiences of people trying to get in the UK - pretty much the same!
The Visa process is worth the little effort; it gets you training in a great environment, great weather for continuity, and the training you require in a minimum amount of flight time and cost.