Do’s and dont’s for a successful F-1 student visa interview

The F-1 US student visa process and interview forms an integral part of your US F-1 student visa application. The interview itself is the most important part. How you prepare for it is crucial, with the outcome of it determining if you are allowed to study in the US.

The reason for the somewhat gruelling interview is so the consular office can find out more about you, your family and how you plan to finance your studies. They also need to understand the reason you wish to study in the US and why you chose that particular school and course. Finally it is important for them to make sure you intend to return home once your studies are complete. Although your interview may only last a few minutes, it is worthwhile taking the time to prepare for it.

Here are some essential tips to prepare for your successful US F1 visa interview:

• Be prepared: Understand the F-1 student visa application process completely and check the requirements for the course and university you have chosen.

• Revise the admission essay or statement of purpose (SOP) you submitted, along with the list of universities and courses you applied for. Take note of those which accepted and declined your applications so you can provide details if asked about them.

• Answer clearly, concisely and respectfully: keep your answers short and on topic, as what you say and the initial impression you give is critical to your success.

• Organise your documentation: carefully file all necessary documents logically, including the original and copies of documents to support your application but don’t offer documents until they are requested.

• Research common questions: practice answering typical interview questions, rehearsing your answers so that you can answer confidently and calmly.

• Share your intentions: explain how your academic goals fit your career aspirations and emphasise the plans you have to return home and include any possible job opportunities you may have.

• Arrive early: make sure you get to the embassy or consulate early so that you feel calm and composed for your interview.

• Dress appropriately: choose formal dress in light or solid colours, making sure you look professional.

• Consider how to manage health insurance: research health insurance and be ready to discuss how you intend to manage healthcare whilst in the US.

What not to do during the interview:

• Avoid being overconfident or nervous: don’t act arrogant or show nervousness when answering questions, as this might cause them to question what you are hiding.

• Don’t offer misleading information: never lie or provide false information as any discrepancy can result in your visa application being denied.

• Don’t put on an odd accent: speak naturally, clearly and concisely in your usual accent and don’t try to put on a false American accent.

• Avoid negative body language: try not to fidget, cross your arms or come across defensively.

• Don’t leave interview preparation to the last minute: if your answers don’t make sense or are extensive and complicated, it could raise doubts about the validity of your application.

Remember doing your homework for your F-1 US student visa interview is key to your success. Preparation takes time and you need to invest the time in understanding the type of questions you may face, so that you come across confident, well spoken, and the facts submitted in your application match the answers you offer during your interview.

Often the processing times for the F-1 US student visa are quick, and you might get an immediate answer directly after your interview. In some cases, however, it may take a few days to receive a response. Find out about what to do if your US F-1 Study Visa is delayed