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Procedure to travel in international flight

STEP1 Airport Procedure. - If you use online check-in and have no baggage to check in, there is no need to go to the check-in counter.
STEP 2 Checking in baggage.
STEP 3 Security Check.
STEP 4 Immigration.
STEP 5 Boarding and Disembarking.
STEP 6 Immigration.
STEP 7 Baggage Claim


passport is required for all international travel. If you're traveling anywhere overseas, you need a passport to board an international flight and to enter the country. Passport cards will not be accepted as form of I.D.  It is necessary to go thorough website of the Airport, from where you are boarding in the International flight, so that there should not be confusion of the documents required for entry in the Airport.   It is also necessary to confirm that the name printed on the Passport as well as in the Bar Code is matching with the name printed on your Flight ticket and Boarding pass.


Staff deployed at Security check and immigration counter has power to disallow your entry in the international flight, if name printed on the Passport as well as in the Bar Code is NOT matching with the name printed on your Flight ticket and Boarding pass.

Many international airports are massive and complex; plan accordingly:

You may think your own home airport is a pretty busy place, but the world’s biggest international hubs — including Dubai International, London Heathrow, Hong Kong International and Paris Charles de Gaulle — take it to another level, with thickets of terminals, customs checkpoints, re-check-ins and more.

For example, international airports in Europe often serve as routine connecting or layover airports for people coming and going from all over the world. People from Russia flying to the United States might connect in Amsterdam; people from the U.S. flying to Hamburg might connect in London; people from Argentina flying to Sicily might connect in Barcelona.

Or sometimes you’ll find yourself flying into a country’s major airport and then connecting to a smaller airport in the same country; this often requires that you arrive at an international terminal, then get yourself to the domestic terminal to catch the shorter flight.


Arriving at and specifically connecting at busy international hubs could require collecting bags and rechecking them, going through security, standing in line for passport control, and/or taking a train or a bus between terminals. Plan accordingly — and make sure you allow at least two hours for international connections.


Check immigration requirements
Something else you need to check are the immigration requirements of your destination. Some require you have proof of onward travel out of the country before they will let you in, whether that be a flight, train or bus ticket. Some countries have these regulations but don’t necessarily enforce them, while some airlines won’t let you even board the flight if you don’t have documentation that is inline with the destination’s immigration requirements.

Most consulates have up-to-date and detailed information about exactly what you need to enter the country, or online forums are a good place to find out what is expected at the current time. If the country does require proof on onward travel and you plan on leaving overland by bus or train (and can’t buy the ticket online), you may need to purchase a return flight and cancel it once you have arrived and passed through immigration formalities.

Make photocopies of all your documents
It’s also a great idea to make photocopies and scans of all you official documentation, including your passport, visa and onward travel, and keep them in a separate location from the originals (or on your laptop). Then if you lose any of them, you at least have proof of identity and permission to be in the country when dealing with local police or immigration authorities.


 Have digital and physical copies of your documents
Make sure you have a hard-copy (ie. print out) of your travel documentation to show at the airport. In this digital age, most airlines and immigration authorities will accept travel itineraries displayed on your laptop or smartphone screen, but it’s much more practical to be able to whip out a piece of paper (and still the preferred means in some less developed parts of the world).

Check your airline’s baggage requirements
When it comes to packing, make sure you know the baggage requirements of your chosen airline(s) and keep in mind how much weight you are willing to haul around with you. As a general rule, pack as light as possible and keep a little bit of room for souvenirs or purchases when abroad.

You also need to keep in mind what is permitted on flights and rules have become much stricter in recent years due to security threats. No dangerous liquids or firearms are allowed at all, and hand luggage is now restricted to liquids of 100mL max and no sharp items (even tweezers, nail scissors are out). You can check what is and isn’t allowed on the airline’s website and keep in mind that these rules are strictly enforced at security screenings.

Arrive 2 hours early
On the day of your flight, it’s really important that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before (three hours is preferable, particularly if it’s your first time flying). This will allow you to check-in, pass through security and immigration channels in a leisurely fashion and manage any delays or unexpected situations that may arise. Some airports are a breeze and you’ll be at your gate in less than 20 minutes after checking in, while others have long queues at check-in, security screening and immigration which you have no control over.

If you’re late, talk to immigration
If you know that your flight is boarding and you’re still standing in the immigration queue, there is normally a personal in authority available who you can explain your situation to and be fast-tracked.


Flying internationally involves a lot of waiting – waiting in queues, waiting at the gate to board and sitting for long hours on a plane. Always bring a book to read, music to listen to and your laptop/tablet to keep you busy. Depending on which airline you are flying with, there may be free in-flight entertainment, but that doesn’t extend to the hours you’ll spend at airports in transit.

Double check you have everything
Arriving into your destination after a long-haul flight can be stressful, especially if it’s your first time. If you’ve been sleeping on the flight and wake up a little drowsy, it’s really easy to leave something (such as your passport) in the seat pocket in front of you. Always double check you have everything you boarded the flight with before you get off the plane, as it can be near-impossible to go back if you forget.

Do you need to recheck your bags?
If you’re connecting to another flight, make sure you know clearly if you need to collect your bags and recheck them in. This is often the case if you get off an international flight for a domestic connection, as you need to have your baggage screened by customs before you proceed. The airline should tell you at your initial check-in point exactly what the procedure is, and if they don’t, always ask!

Fill out your immigration card early
Chances are you will need to fill out an immigration arrivals card and a customs declaration. The first is information about you and what you intend on doing in the country, while the second is a declaration of exactly what you are bringing into the country. It’s important that you fill out these accurately and truthfully as the punishments for not doing so can be severe.

Take the immigration card seriously
Don’t base your answers on your own morals or what is acceptable in your own country, because this won’t stand up in a court of law inside your destination country if you are found to be doing the wrong thing. This is particularly true for bringing in (or taking out) any kinds of drugs, and in some countries the penalty is death, no questions asked! If you have got something in your luggage that is deemed illegal on the customs form, it’s best to declare it and they will probably be far more lenient than if they find it during a random search.

Don’t exchange money at the airport
Once you’ve cleared customs and immigration, you’ll more than likely end up in an arrivals hall with money exchange facilities and ground transportation options. Airport money exchange counters generally don’t offer the best rates, so unless you know otherwise, only change what you really need to get to your accommodation or a bank/city money exchange office.

Cab: know what you’re getting into

If you are planning on traveling from the airport by taxi, clearly confirm whether it is metered or fixed-fare before you step inside. It’s a good idea to always check before you leave home the approximate fare to your destination online so you have some bargaining power if it is unmetered.


Hotel for temporary accommodation at US:

While most U.S. hotels are chains or franchises for which pricing, amenities, availability and discounts are centrally determined and administered, many international hotels are run much more like independent businesses where the manager is really in charge. This is especially the case at smaller hotels, but even at some chains you will find you are doing all your business directly with the hotel manager. He or she can often haggle over price, throw in extras like breakfast and more. Emails to the hotel, calls to the front desk, reservation extensions, complaints — these are often all handled by one person.

Airbnb is an American online market place and hospitality service brokerage company based in San Francisco, California, United States, for temporary accommodation

























Q: Why can’t you continue your education in your home country? 
Q: What are you planning to study?
Q: Have you been to the United States before?
Q: How many different universities did you apply to?
Q: TOEFL and IELTS demonstrate your ability to speak ?
Q: Can you share your high school transcripts?
Q: How are you planning to finance your education?
Q: Who is sponsoring you?
Q. What is the profession of your sponsor?
Q: Do you plan on working while you are studying in the US?
Q: Do you plan to return to your home country after completing your studies?
Q: Do you have family, relatives, or friends in the US? 
Q: Do you have a job or career in mind post-graduation? 

This is a common question in U.S. visa interviews, and the key is to justify why studying in the U.S. is a better option while also showing strong ties to your home country (to assure them you will return after your studies).

💡 How to Answer:

  • Highlight the quality of education in the U.S. (advanced curriculum, research opportunities, industry exposure).
  • Explain what your home country lacks in terms of academic programs, research, or specialization.
  • Avoid negative comments about your country’s education system. Instead, focus on why the U.S. is a better fit for your specific career goals.
  • Show your intent to return after completing your studies.


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This is a crucial question in a U.S. visa interview. The visa officer wants to ensure that you have sufficient financial support to cover your tuition and living expenses without needing unauthorized work.


💡 How to Answer:

  1. Mention your primary financial sponsor – It could be your parents, family, personal savings, scholarships, or loans.
  2. Specify the source of funds – Savings, education loans, sponsorship, or assistantships.
  3. Provide proof of financial stability – If asked, be ready to show bank statements, loan approval letters, or scholarship documents.
  4. Avoid any doubt – Do not say that you will work in the U.S. to fund your education, as this can lead to a visa rejection.

Example Answers:

📌 Self-Funded Answer:
"My education is being funded by my parents, who have sufficient savings to cover my tuition and living expenses. We have already arranged finances, and I have the necessary bank statements and documents to prove it."

📌 Loan + Personal Savings Answer:
"I have secured an education loan from [Bank Name] for [$XX,XXX], which covers my tuition fees. Additionally, my parents have personal savings to support my living expenses. I have all the financial documents if needed."

📌 Scholarship Answer:
"I have been awarded a scholarship from [University Name] that covers part of my tuition. The remaining expenses will be covered by my parents, whose financial documents I have available."

Would you like help tailoring this answer based on your funding source? 😊

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💡 How to Answer: "Who is sponsoring you?"

This question is asked to verify your financial stability and ensure that you have a legitimate source of funds to cover your education and living expenses in the U.S.


How to Answer Based on Your Funding Source:

  1. Parents or Family Sponsorship:

    • Mention that your parents or a close family member are funding your education.
    • Be ready to provide bank statements, tax returns, or affidavits of support if requested.
    • Example:
      "My education is being fully funded by my parents. They have stable financial resources and have already set aside sufficient funds for my tuition and living expenses. I have supporting financial documents if needed."
  2. Education Loan:

    • Specify the bank name and loan amount that has been sanctioned for your studies.
    • Example:
      "I have secured an education loan of [$XX,XXX] from [Bank Name], which covers my tuition and living costs. The loan has already been approved, and I have the official documents with me."
  3. Scholarship or University Funding:

    • If you received a scholarship, mention the name of the scholarship and coverage details (full/partial tuition, stipend, etc.).
    • Example:
      "I have been awarded a merit-based scholarship from [University Name], which covers [XX%] of my tuition fees. My parents will cover the remaining expenses."
  4. Personal Savings (if applicable):

    • If you're funding yourself, mention your work history, savings, or investments.
    • Example:
      "I have been working for the past [X] years and have saved enough funds to support my education. I also have a financial backup in case of any unexpected expenses."

What to Avoid:

  • Saying you will work in the U.S. to pay for your studies (this is not allowed on an F-1 visa).
  • Giving unclear or vague answers about your sponsor’s financial status.

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💡 How to Answer: "What is the profession of your sponsor?"

The visa officer asks this question to verify your sponsor's financial ability to support your education and stay in the U.S.


How to Answer Based on Your Sponsor's Profession:

  1. If Your Parents Are Sponsoring You:

    • Clearly mention their profession, company name (if applicable), and financial stability.
    • Example:
      "My father is a senior manager at [Company Name] with over [X] years of experience, and my mother is a doctor running her own private clinic. They have stable incomes and sufficient funds to support my education."
  2. If a Sibling/Relative Is Sponsoring You:

    • Explain their profession and reason for sponsorship.
    • Example:
      "My elder brother is a software engineer at [Company Name] in [Country Name]. He has a strong financial background and has committed to funding my education."
  3. If You Have a Loan or Scholarship:

    • Mention that your education is partially funded by a loan/scholarship while your family covers the rest.
    • Example:
      "I have secured an education loan of [$XX,XXX] from [Bank Name], and my father, who is a business owner, will cover the remaining expenses."

What to Avoid:

  • Giving vague answers like "My father does business" (be specific).
  • Saying you will work to fund yourself (this is not allowed for an F-1 visa).

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💡 How to Answer: "Do you plan on working while you are studying in the US?"

The visa officer asks this to ensure you understand the work restrictions under an F-1 student visa.


Best Way to Answer:

  1. Show Awareness of F-1 Visa Rules

    • Example:
      "I understand that F-1 visa holders are allowed to work only on-campus for a limited number of hours. My primary focus is on my studies, but if an opportunity arises for an on-campus job that aligns with my schedule, I may consider it."
  2. Emphasize Financial Preparedness

    • Example:
      "I have sufficient funds to support my education and living expenses, as demonstrated in my financial documents. My priority is to focus on my coursework."
  3. Mention Practical Training (If Applicable)

    • Example:
      "If eligible, I may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) as part of my academic program, but I will follow all regulations."

What to Avoid:

  • Saying you need to work to support yourself (this may lead to visa rejection).
  • Mentioning off-campus jobs (which are not allowed without special authorization).

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💡 How to Answer: "Do you plan to return to your home country after completing your studies?"

The visa officer asks this question to assess whether you have strong ties to your home country and do not intend to overstay in the U.S. after your studies.


Best Way to Answer:

  1. Express Your Intention to Return

    • Example:
      "Yes, I plan to return to my home country after completing my studies because I want to apply the knowledge and skills I gain in the U.S. to contribute to my country’s [industry/profession]."
  2. Mention Family, Career, or Business Ties

    • Example:
      "My family and future career opportunities are in [your home country]. I intend to return and work in [specific industry] where my degree will be valuable."
  3. Highlight Career Aspirations in Your Country

    • Example:
      "I have a job offer waiting for me at [Company Name] after graduation, where I can use my education to advance in my field."

What to Avoid:

  • Saying you want to stay in the U.S. permanently (this may lead to visa denial).
  • Being unsure or vague in your response.


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💡 How to Answer: "Do you have family, relatives, or friends in the US?"

The visa officer asks this question to assess your ties to the U.S. and whether you have any strong reasons to overstay after your visa expires.


Best Way to Answer:

Scenario 1: If You Do NOT Have Family in the U.S.

💬 "No, I do not have any family or relatives in the U.S. My primary reason for traveling is to study, and I plan to return home after completing my education."


Scenario 2: If You DO Have Family or Friends in the U.S.

💬 "Yes, I have [mention relationship, e.g., an uncle, aunt, or cousin] who lives in [City, State]. However, my primary purpose for going to the U.S. is to study, and I intend to return to my home country after completing my degree."

Key Points to Remember:

  • Always answer truthfully—visa officers can verify your information.
  • If you have family in the U.S., mention only close relatives (parents, siblings, uncles, aunts, or cousins) if asked.
  • Avoid emphasizing any strong ties that suggest you may overstay your visa.


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There are three types of US student visas:







Getting a visa for the USA depends on your purpose of travel. Here’s a general guide to the different types of visas and the application process:


🛂 Types of USA Visas

1️⃣ Tourist & Business Visas

  • B1 Visa – Business purposes (meetings, conferences, etc.)
  • B2 Visa – Tourism, medical treatment, visiting family/friends
  • B1/B2 Visa – A combination of both

2️⃣ Work Visas

  • H-1B Visa – For skilled professionals (IT, engineering, etc.)
  • L-1 Visa – Intra-company transfer
  • O-1 Visa – For individuals with extraordinary ability
  • H-2B Visa – Temporary workers (non-agriculture)

3️⃣ Student & Exchange Visas

  • F-1 Visa – For academic studies in universities/colleges
  • M-1 Visa – For vocational/non-academic studies
  • J-1 Visa – For exchange programs

4️⃣ Immigrant Visas (Green Card)

  • Family-based – Sponsored by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Employment-based – Sponsored by a U.S. employer
  • Diversity Visa (DV Lottery) – Green card lottery program

📌 How to Apply for a USA Visa

Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa

  • Choose the correct visa based on your travel purpose.

Step 2: Complete the DS-160 Form

  • Fill out the DS-160 online application form at CEAC website.
  • Print the confirmation page for your interview.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

  • Pay the non-refundable visa application fee (varies by visa type).

Step 4: Schedule a Visa Interview

  • Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your country.

Step 5: Attend the Interview

  • Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, visa fee receipt, and supporting documents.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your trip, finances, and intent to return.

Step 6: Visa Approval & Processing

  • If approved, your passport will be stamped with the visa. Processing time varies.

🛑 Important Tips

🔹 Be honest and confident in your visa interview.
🔹 Show proof of financial ability (bank statements, sponsorship, etc.).
🔹 Demonstrate strong ties to your home country (job, family, property, etc.).
🔹 Apply well in advance to avoid last-minute delays.


Yes! If you're looking for specific visa requirements based on your situation or interview tips to increase your chances of approval, I can guide you.

👉 Do you need details for a particular type of visa (Tourist, Work, Student, etc.)?
👉 Are you concerned about any part of the interview process? (e.g., common questions, documents, how to answer tricky questions)

Let me know what you need help with! 

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For international students in the U.S., getting a work permit (Employment Authorization Document - EAD) or legal work status depends on their visa type and compliance with regulations. Here are the key risks and challenges:

1. Limited Work Options on F-1 Visa

  • On-campus work: Allowed up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks.
  • Off-campus work (CPT & OPT): Needs authorization and must be related to your field of study.

2. Risks with Optional Practical Training (OPT) & STEM OPT

  1. Regular OPT: 12 months of work after graduation.
  2. STEM OPT Extension: 24 extra months for STEM degree holders.
  3. Risk: If you stay unemployed for more than 90 days (OPT) or 150 days (STEM OPT), your legal status can be revoked.

3. H-1B Visa Uncertainty (For Post-Study Work)

a)      Lottery system: Even after securing a job, H-1B sponsorship is not guaranteed due to high demand and limited visas.

b)     Strict employer requirements: Not all employers are willing to sponsor international graduates.

4. Unauthorized Work = Visa Violation

a)     Working without proper authorization can result in visa cancellation, deportation, and a future ban from the U.S.

b)  It is habitual for international students to work during study in the University.  Resulting in deportation of such students if caught illegal.

5. Delays in Work Permit Processing

a)      OPT, STEM OPT, and Green Card applications can face long processing times (3-6 months or more), causing delays in starting work.

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When applying for a U.S. visa, the questions vary based on the visa type (student, work, tourist, etc.). However, here are some common questions asked during the interview:

1. General Questions

✅ What is the purpose of your visit to the U.S.?
✅ Have you been to the U.S. before?
✅ Do you have relatives or friends in the U.S.?
✅ Have you ever been denied a U.S. visa?

2. Financial & Sponsorship Questions

✅ Who is funding your trip?
✅ What is your annual income?
✅ Do you have a sponsor? What is their relationship with you?
✅ Can you provide proof of sufficient funds?

3. Travel & Stay Plans

✅ Where will you stay in the U.S.?
✅ How long will you be in the U.S.?
✅ What places do you plan to visit?

4. Student Visa (F-1) Questions

✅ Why did you choose this university/program?
✅ How will you pay for your education?
✅ What are your career plans after graduation?
✅ Do you plan to return to your home country after studies?

5. Work Visa (H-1B, L-1) Questions

✅ What is your job title and role in the company?
✅ Why is your company sending you to the U.S.?
✅ What is your salary in the U.S.?
✅ Do you plan to return to your home country after your assignment?

6. Family & Ties to Home Country

✅ What family members do you have in your home country?
✅ What property, business, or job do you have in your home country?
✅ Do you have strong reasons to return after your U.S. trip?

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When applying for a U.S. visa, it’s crucial to carry all necessary documents, even if the visa officer does not ask for each one. Below is a list of essential documents based on different visa types:


🛂 General Documents for All U.S. Visa Applicants

Valid Passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay)
DS-160 Confirmation Page (Online Non-Immigrant Visa Application)
Visa Appointment Confirmation
Application Fee Payment Receipt


🎓 Student Visa (F-1, M-1) Documents

Form I-20 (Issued by the U.S. school/university)
SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt
University Admission Letter
Educational Certificates & Transcripts (Mark sheets, Degree certificates)
Proof of Financial Support (Bank statements, Sponsorship letter, Scholarship proof)


💼 Work Visa (H-1B, L-1) Documents

Form I-797 (Approval notice from USCIS)
Offer Letter from Employer
Employment Contract & Job Description
Latest Salary Slips & Tax Returns
Company’s Financial Documents (if applicable)


🛫 Tourist Visa (B-1/B-2) Documents

Travel Itinerary (Flight & hotel bookings, tour plans)
Proof of Funds (Bank statements, Tax returns, Salary slips)
Letter from Employer (If employed, stating leave approval)
Property Ownership Documents (To show strong ties to your home country)


👨‍👩‍👧 Dependent & Family Visa (F-2, H-4, L-2) Documents

Marriage Certificate (For spouses)
Birth Certificate (For children)
Principal Applicant’s Visa Documents (I-20, I-797, Job letter, etc.)


Certain Documents are asked for or enquired about, by the VISA officers, then Students should reply the queries, rather than search the Documents for presentations.  The VISA officer may get annoyed for your behavior.

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Here are common questions asked during a U.S. visa interview, along with tips on how to answer them effectively:


🎓 Student Visa (F-1) Interview Questions & Answers

1. Why do you want to study in the USA?

💡 Tip: Show that you have researched U.S. education and why it is the best fit for you.
Example Answer:
"The U.S. offers a high-quality education system, diverse academic programs, and advanced research opportunities. My chosen university has an excellent faculty and cutting-edge facilities in my field of study, which will help me achieve my career goals."


2. Why did you choose this university?

💡 Tip: Mention university rankings, professors, curriculum, and unique offerings.
Example Answer:
"I chose [University Name] because it is ranked among the top universities for my program. The curriculum aligns well with my career goals, and the faculty members have expertise in my field of interest."


3. What is your planned course of study?

💡 Tip: Be specific about your program and its relevance to your future.
Example Answer:
"I will be pursuing a Master's in Computer Science, specializing in Artificial Intelligence. This program focuses on advanced machine learning techniques, which are crucial for my career aspirations."


4. Who is sponsoring your education?

💡 Tip: Provide clear financial proof and mention your sponsor (parents, scholarship, etc.).
Example Answer:
"My parents are sponsoring my education, and we have prepared financial statements showing sufficient funds. Additionally, I have received a partial scholarship from my university."


5. What are your plans after graduation?

💡 Tip: Show strong ties to your home country to avoid rejection.
Example Answer:
"After completing my degree, I plan to return to [home country] and work in [specific industry]. The knowledge and skills I gain will help me contribute to my country’s growing tech sector."


6. Have you been to the USA before?

💡 Tip: Answer honestly. If yes, explain the reason for your visit.
Example Answer:
"No, this will be my first time traveling to the U.S."* (or)_
"Yes, I visited the U.S. in [year] for [reason, e.g., tourism, family visit]."


7. Do you have relatives in the U.S.?

💡 Tip: Answer truthfully. If yes, mention only close relatives.
Example Answer:
"Yes, I have an uncle living in [city]. However, I will be staying on campus at my university."


8. What will you do if your visa is rejected?

💡 Tip: Show confidence and willingness to reapply.
Example Answer:
"I will review the reason for rejection, make necessary improvements, and reapply. My goal is to study in the U.S. because of the excellent education system."


💼 Work Visa (H-1B) Common Questions

1️⃣ What is your job title and responsibilities?
2️⃣ Why did your employer hire you?
3️⃣ What is your salary?
4️⃣ Do you plan to return to your home country?
5️⃣ How did you find this job?


💡 Final Tips for Your Interview:
✅ Be confident and answer clearly.
✅ Keep your answers short and to the point.
✅ Carry all necessary documents.
✅ Maintain eye contact with the officer.
✅ Show strong home ties (family, career, property, etc.).

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VISA APPROVED
CONSULATE : HYDERABAD
Token No. : E212
Window No: 16
VO was a beautiful short haired brunette woman in her early 30's and she rejected two people before me. I was a little nervous but I smiled it out nd approached with confidence.
ME: Gud morning ma'am
VO : Goo mornimg (she murmured)
Hand over your passport nd put your left hand fingers over der
*I did so...but she asked to do it again*
VO : sir, your right hand please
*i did it but she asked me to do dat again fr 2 more times..she was animating her hand to show me how to do it*
ME : Sorry Ma'am 
VO : *big sigh* why r u gng to US?
ME : to study MS in Mechanical Engineering
VO : how many universities have you applied? How many admits did you get? Name all the universities.
ME : University of Akron, Cleveland State University,Wayne state nd univ of texas and arlington. I got admits in UTa nd WSU
VO: whats your GRE score?
ME : 296
VO : *gave a wide eyed expression with smile* okey
VO : specialisation?
ME : Machine Design
VO : What courses have you registered for first sem
*I said the related subjects to my course*
VO: Who is going to fund ur fees for graduation?
ME : my father is going to pay the expenses and I took a bank loan for grad fees
VO : whts your father?
ME : Professor in XXXX in XX dept
VO :
Congrats..your visa is approved
ME : *with a big smile* Thank you ma'am
Visa interview :
Sorry for uploading my VI after 5 Day's of my Visa Interview.
Date: 10-10-2014
Consolate: Hyderabad
Slot time:9:30

Entered embassy around 9 and they said to sit in a chair where they said they will call one by one but Some thing went wrong inside the consulate as people who have 8:30,10:00,10:30 slot's are also still sitting with me. where there is no protocol at that time they are sending people as their wish. Done with my checkups Token no: E182 and waiting for my interview, But the thing is VO's was late or some thing happen as people who have 8 o clock are also waiting, on that day people who have come for visiting visa was high and met 3 people over there.i think there were around 100 people waiting for interview at that particular time it, after half an hour my token was displayed Counter 11.He is asking so many question 
VO: Gud morning please pass ur passport.
ME: Passed
VO: Which university.
ME: SDSU
VO: What Project have u done at the time of your final year.
ME: Vice tool ( Didnt expected that question but said what i have done in mini project )
VO: Vice tool is that a project ?? ( Thought Uskak iga intiki poyi bisthar vesukoni padukundham ani )
ME: Sir actually i have done 2 project where i have done one project in XX and done live Project where its automatic gear system. ( MANAGED )
VO: OK OK OK 
VO: Tell me about ur project.
ME: Said.
VO: Backlogs ?
ME: 10 
VO: Reason ?
ME: said 
VO:Whats ur father?
ME: He is an Govt employee Sir.
VO: where.
Me: Central GOVT sir.
VO: which company.
ME: XXXXXXXX
VO: IS he and army person.
ME: NO sir he works in a small company which supply small small parts.
VO: what Subjects Your Going to take in 1st sem.
ME: i was tensed at that time and got stammered.
VO: Y are u tensed man COOL 
Me: said what am going to study.
VO: what are You going to do after MS
ME: After my Masters planning to come back and see my self in an Good position.
VO
: UR VISA IS approved u can collect your passport with in 3 days.

ME: Thank you sir. once again thank you sir.
VO: OK OK BYE

See guys dnt expect Your questions. and people say that be Confident at the time interview but no problem how u are they can understand but say what u know and what have u done. Actually VISA totally Depend on your LUCK. thats it.
thanks for the group.
ALL THE BEST
Here goes the first VISA interview for SPRING 2014 in Hyderabad US Consulate.

Consulate : Hyderabad
Date & Time : 19th Sep, 8:30AM
Counter No : 14, Token : E141
VO rejected 3 VISA's before me.

Interview time : 8:30Am reported at 8:00Am. Finished security check by 9:00. Interview for just 2Min (As my friends previouslydescribed it as Rapid Fire :P)

Here goes the interview:
ME: Good Morning officer, How do you do ?
VO: Good morning, I am fine thank you. Pass me your documents.
(Gave him I20, Passport, SEVIS receipt).
VO: So, Y Embry-Riddle ? Place your left hand four fingers on the scanner.
ME: Sure ! As I applied for my masters in Aerospace Engg & ERAU is best of my admits.
VO: What are you going to do in Aeronautical Engineering ?
ME: Yes sir it is Aerospace Engineering.
VO: No, What is your specialization ?
ME: Its structural Aerospace Engineering sir.
VO: Describe. (Did't expect this question)
ME: I am going to design the Aeronautical Structures. (VO didnt listen to this actually)
VO: So I think you got a scholarship of $5000 ?
ME: Yes sir, Actually its $10,000 as $5000 for First and rest for the Second Year based on my GPA.
VO: Ok.. How are you going to pay the rest ?
ME: My family is going to pay it sir.
(VO checking something in his system and took the copy of my I20 from his printer)
VO:
Your VISA is approved. You can leave.
ME: Thank you sir.

Got tensed a little bit seeing 3 rejections before me, but finally I made it All the best for all the applicants for SPRING. Be kool.. The VO's are there to accept your VISA only !!
Visa Accepted on 4th attempt MS in Management Information Systems for Texas Tech University. -- Pranith

Visa Interview 1
Date : 29th May 2012 Time : 8am
Consulate : Hyderabad
Counter no : 11

Visa Officer is a fair guy. Looks like the tennis ace Andy Murray .

VO : What is the purpose of your travel?
ME : To pursue Masters.

VO : Why Northwest Missouri?
ME : I like the course curriculum at NW interesting sir.

VO : Why US?
ME : Sir, US is advanced in the field of Computer Science and hence I chose US as my destination.

VO : Admits ?
ME : 2

VO : When did you complete your undergraduate study ?
ME : 2012 sir.

VO : What is your Academic score?
ME : 67% Sir

VO : Any Backlogs ?
ME : I had 2 backlogs in my 1st yr sir. However I completed them in the very next attempt.

VO : Who is sponsoring you?
ME : My father is funding for my studies (Interrupted by VO)

VO : Whats his income?
ME : XX.XX Lakhs sir.

VO: Do you know any1 from your university?
ME : Yes Sir, I know a few seniors.

VO : ( Gave a paper to me and marked X on it and said )
This explains why you are rejected.
ME : Shocked .. Sir can I get 1 more minute.

VO : Yes go ahead ( grabs a cup of coffee and sits )
ME : Sir, my only dream is to pursue my masters. I have worked really hard for it. ( shivering tone )

VO : I am not convinced this time. You may apply anytime again if you want .
MR : Thank you sir. Have a nice day

Visa Interview 2
Date : 20th Jun 2012 Time : 9am
Consulate : Hyderabad
Counter no : 9

Again same Visa Officer Andy Murray .

He said he cant take my interview again and sent me to another guy.

VO : Why do you think you were rejected earlier?
ME : Sir, I wasn't confident enough in my 1st interview. I did not convey my intentions properly sir.

VO : Do you think that is the only reason?
ME : Yes sir, most probably.

VO : What did you change in your profile?
ME : Its been just 20 days after I was rejected sir. I did not change anything.

VO : I think I do not have anything strong to go against the 1st visa officer, I can't issue you a visa.
ME : Smiling . May I know the exact reason sir ?

VO : This papers explains why you were rejected.
ME : Sir, can I get a verbal explanation?

VO :
I don't think you qualify for a student visa.
ME : Do you have any suggestions for me sir?

VO : Go and get some work experience.
ME : Sure Sir, Thank you. Have a nice day.

Visa Interview 3
Date : 6th Nov 2012 Time : 9am
Consulate : Chennai
Counter no : 12

VO was an old lady in her 50s.

VO : Why MS ?
ME : Same answer as earlier

VO : Where are you heading?
ME : Northwest Missouri

VO: When did you passout?
ME : 2012

VO : What have you been doing since then?
ME : I've done an internship at XXX company for 3 months.

VO : Which Project did you work on?
ME : Heat Map Analytics

VO : How will you fund your education?
ME : I have savings of XX Lakhs and a bank loan of XX Lakhs

VO :
Sorry I cant issue you a visa this time. However you may apply anytime again if you wish to.
ME : ok Thank you.mam Have a nice day.

Visa Interview 4
Date : 7th Oct 2013 Time : 8.30am
Consulate : Hyderabad
GRE -308, TOEFL -104
Counter no : 15

This VO will not leave me .. its Andy Murray again.

VO : So you are the 2nd person going to Texas Tech today. Huh ?
ME : Yea Sir.

VO : So do you know the girl before you?
ME : Yes sir. I know her.

VO : So why US?
ME : Sir the course MIS isn't offered in India. It is offered by few good universities in US sir. Hence I am considering US as my destination.

VO : Why MS?
ME : After having 1 year of work experience I now know the loop-holes in my technical knowledge. With the help of Masters I want to pluck these loop-holes sir.

VO : What all universities did you apply?
ME : I applied for 4 universities sir. Texas Tech, Louisiana State, Oklahoma State, Northern Illinois.

VO : How many admits?
ME: 2 sir. Texas Tech & Northern Illinois.

VO: Why TTU?
ME : TTU has a very good course curriculum for MIS. I also got good feedback from my seniors who attended TTU sir.

VO: Why only MIS . Why not CS?
ME : Sir I want to have an in-depth knowledge on databases and also get some exposure on management of IT.

** ( I thought it was slipping away again )**

VO : Whats your UG%
ME : I've got 67% sir.

VO : Backlogs?
ME : 2 sir. I completed them in the very next attempt. (shivering voice)

VO: Whats your GRE?
ME: I scored 308 in my GRE sir. ( with confidence )

VO : Do you have any siblings?
ME : I have an elder brother

VO : What is he doing?
ME : He is pursuing his masters in Germany sir.

VO: Which university?
ME: University of Darmstadt Sir.

VO: What is his major?
ME: MIS sir.

VO: So both are doing MIS?
ME: No sir. He is into Automation Engineering.

VO : Oh thats so cool. My friend is into Automation Engineering.
ME: Smiled

VO : What are his plans?
ME: He will be completing his masters in another 2-3 months sir. After that he might be working for 1-2 years and than start his own company.

VO: What kind of a company and where?
ME: Sir, I have no clear idea about it. But I just know that he is interested in starting his own firm.

VO : When did you passout?
ME: 2012 sir.

VO: What have you been doing since then?
ME: Sir, I worked for the past 1 yr.

VO : Can I see your work documents?
ME: Here are my payslips and my visiting card sir. ( was about to give the appointment letter but he stopped me ).

VO: What is your dream profession?
ME: From my childhood I had the dream of becoming a Professor sir.

VO: Place your Left hand 4 fingers ... You may take your documents ,.. ( he then turned around and put my passport in a basket and did not turn back ).
ME : I kept my payslips in my folder and was waiting for his to turn back.

VO :
Turned back and said - You can leave now . Your visa is approved.
ME: Thank you so much sir. You made my day ..... ( jumped and punched the air while cmg back and people smiled at me ).

Suggestions for Visa Interview
1. Do not loose your hope
2. Change the university. Do not stick to a university
3. VOs generally ask common questions and suddenly ask a tricky question and at that time they watch for a change in your facial expression. ( happened to me 2 times ).
4. Give practical answers instead of pretending. They know everything about us.

F1 Visa Interview for Texas Tech University
Visa approved http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png
Consulate: Hyderabad
University: Texas Tech University(TTU)
Date: 6th June, 2013
Slot: 10 am
Counter: 13

My visa experience:
Me: Hello madam, good morning.
VO: Good morning, how r u? (with a smile on face)
Me: Iam good, how r u?
VO: I am good too, pls pass me the passport.
Me: Gave
VO: Which school?
Me: TTU
VO: Y did u choose this school?
Me: Told about the univ and specialisation m gonna take.
VO: What will u do after passing out with that specialisation?
Me: Told
VO: How many bklogs?
Me: None
VO: Where is the univ located?
Me: told
VO: What other admits do u have?
Me: Only TTU.
VO: (With perplexity) What all did u apply?
Me: Told
VO:
Thats ok, ur visa is approved.(with a bigg smile ) 

Took the finger prints and said bye with a smile.
Total interview lasted for 30 to 45 seconds. Questions rained one after the other. she took some time for entering the data.

All who r going to attend the interview, be frank and truthful. Dont fake, a guy in front of me did that and he got rejected. All the best
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png

F1 Visa Interview - Hyderabad US Consulate
Got Visa to UTD-MSEE Approved after 1week without 221g

Visa experience:
Consulate: Hyderabad
university: UTD-MSEE
Decision: Approved after 1week without 221g
Date: 23rd may
 

My slot was at 11.15am and I was allowed to enter the consulate at around 10.45. After entering the consulate, have gone through the normal procedure of scanning the docs and fingerprint scanning and after almost 1hr later was given a token number of E202 and counter 11.
My interview was literally done TWICE and here it goes.

COUNTER #11
Me: Good Afternoon Sir, how r u? (smiling)
VO1: Hi, pass me ur passport (not smiling and his age probably in late 20’s)
1st question and its different from what I saw the experiences from past 1yr in FB
VO1: Did u go to a consultancy??
Me: No sir
He was trying to trick me where watching the system he told me
VO1: No u r lying to me..u went to a consultancy
Me: Certainly no sir, I never approached any consultancy
The VO was frustrated by that time bcoz of the interviews from morning and he asked the same question and the same answer repeated for the next 2min and he was literally asking me to get out from there and finally he told me to wait for 10min in the lobby and that he’ll call me again.
I thought that was the end of my interview and sat in the lobby expecting to get an another chance after 10min. After 10min, an Indian official was handed my passport and he called my name and handed it over to me and asked me to stand in another counter(#12) for the interview again wherein I understood that the previous officer was not in a mood to take the interview and so left the counter.
The VO2 was also in his late 20s and he was accepting applicants before me and my interview goes like this.

COUNTER #12
Me: good afternoon sir, how u doing?(again smiling )
VO2: Hey how r u (expressions better then VO1).Pass me ur passport.
Me: Sure sir.
VO2: (Again the same question) Did u approach a consultancy.Tell me truth bcoz I had given a reject to one student who went but told me that he didn’t.
Me: No sir I applied on my own and my sis was also in US with her husband till 2011 where she suggested me some universities to apply for.
VO2: she is in US now?
Me: no sir
VO2:Ok fine wats ur agg and number of backlogs?
Me:68 and 1 backlog sir
VO2:gre?
Me:304
VO2: Pass me ur scorecard and tell me which univ?
Me: passed the scorecard and told him UTD
 
VO2: Why this univ?
ME: Told
He was listening but was more busy typing something in the system
VO2: where did u fill ur DS form?
Me: home sir.
VO2:how many univ did u apply and wat r they?
Me:5 sir and told them
VO2: Pass me ur marksheets
Me: He was somewhat convinced with my answers by this time.
VO2: Who is sponsoring u and how do u pay ur fee?
Me: my parents sir and told the finances
 
VO2 asked me to show the proof of finances and I passed him the passbook and FD’s.
He took them and arranged them in order and lifted the bunch when I thought he was issuing me visa but instead he told me to wait again for 5min
I thought WTF? No one was waiting like that and I was almost the last person in the consulate whose interview is still going on.
After 2min the VO2 called me to another counter and asked me to leave the consulate and told me that they would check if the finances r genuine and if they are genuine, they’ll issue me a VISA. I was not given 221g but my passport was retained by them which was some positive sign. After all that happened in the consulate, I was continuously checking my passport status for the next 2days to hear the good news.
Finally on 29th my passport status changed, got an email and also a message at the same time indicating that my passport is ready and can collect it between 3-4. I was really happy that I had finally got it and it is stamped for 5yrs
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png

P.S: CONFIDENCE REALLY MATTERS. Both the officers were playing a game asking whether I approached a consultancy but I was firm on my answer that I dint go and they were convinced with my answer.
Finally this is what I was waiting for more than 1 yr to post (not the interview :P)
US VISA
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png
HOPE THIS HELPS SOMEONE
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png

Got F1 Visa to University of North Carolina Charlotte in Hyderabad

Student's F1 Visa Aproved for
 University of North Carolina Charlotte in Hyderabad US Consulate. Student applied for Computer Science program at UNCC.

My VI Experience #2
Consulate: Hyderabad
Date: 22/05/2012 Time: 11:00 AM
Destination: University of North Carolina Charlotte
Status: Approved

I reached the consulate late at 11:15 AM. After completing all the formalities I got the token number issued. Sat somewhere and relaxing as I thought I had plenty of time.But suddenly 2 counters were opened and people over there directed a bunch of F-1 applicants to those counters including me.
 

I was freaked out because I was expecting atleast 30 minutes of time for my token number to appear.

VO is a young guy in early 30's. Approved two girls infront of me. My turn.

Me: Good afternoon sir. How are you?
VO: I am fine what about you? and please pass the documents.

Me: I am fine sir. Passed the documents.
VO: What program are you going to study at UNCC?

Me: Computer Science with a specialization in Game Developmet sir.
VO: How did you come to know about UNCC and your program

Me: told about IGDA and all...
VO: Typed for some time and asked there are several universities offering game dev programs why did you opt for UNCC?

Me: Told about the game lab and professors. Explained about the student projects etc.
VO: Types and checks the UNCC site for the info what I said. I saw because the green glare of UNCC website reflected.

VO: So have you developed any games
Me: Yes sir. I have developed 2 games. Explained him about how those will work.

VO: Laughed and said I too play that game a lot
VO: Except the Indie games. Have you developed or being developed any serious games
Me: I have a game project running sir. It will take another 6 months to complete because of the heavy design.

VO: Exclaimed and said 6 months. Why so long.
Me: Officer I am basically a programmer. I need to satisfy the works of artist, animator, storyboard writer etc to develop a game. Believe me sir games are not as easy as they look. There are tons of code lines and animated moments inside a single game.

VO: It's ok. I see that you are a freelancer. How did you gain the experience.
Me: Sir I have been programming since I was 13. That made me projects come to me without any qualification either.

VO: Examined my freelance profile for a while and types for sometime
VO: So what other colleges did you apply?
Me: Told 3. RIT UNCC CSU-Chico. And told that I was looking only for game dev courses.

VO: Then Why didn't you opt for those?
Me: Told

VO: Asked me to repeat the university which offered design course as he typed in the computer and checked for the info I told.
VO: Fine. How are you planning your studies.
Me: I have xx amount in savings and xx amount in fds also explained that I don't need a bank loan and told that everything is planned for 2 years stay.

VO: Can I have those statements please.(Types)
Me: Passed

VO: What is you father? (Types)
Me: He is businessman sir.

VO: And how did a businessman got xx amount of liquid in short time
Me: Explained about the land that was sold for my education and showed him the settlement document of the land.

VO: No need. Gave the documents back after clearly checking for the exact amounts what I said.
VO: What is your father's annual income?(Types)
Me: It is around xx
 

VO: It was recorded that in the last interview, you said it was xx
Me: Sorry sir previous VO asked me about the business income not annual income. Explained about other sources and how did it make up to xx amount. Do you want to see the IT returns and respective documents sir?

VO: No need. Somewhere you said IGDA and that you are a member. What kind of benifits do you get.
Me: Explained

VO: Whats your membership name?
 
Me: Said ( as I spell it, he typed it and checked)

VO: Types seriously for several minutes. What type of games do you play.
Me: Action, racing, strategy etc. Mentioned some of my favourite games.

VO: He said ok. Took the passport as if he is giving it back to me. But wrote A on the DS form and told
your Visa is approved and you will get it in a week.

VO asked other questions also which I really cannot remember. But sure this is 95% of the interview.

I walked out of the consulate with raised head. I felt that I deserve U.S VISA because of the Interview experiences in first and second ones.

Looked straight into the eyes and spoken loudly. I did not smile much but maintained professional gestures and attire while I am talking.

Really confidence is the key for VISA interviews. I felt and experienced that.

End of my Interview..............

Student's Successful F1 Visa Experience on 4th attempt. Student Visa Rejected 3 times. Applies to Visa Interview with Low Ranked School (Sacred Heart University) and Low GRE - 850.

F1 Visa Rejected in 3rd attempt

I was rejected twice before this third attempt bcoz of low schol(sacred heart univ) and then becuasue of Low profile. Then I realized that giving him a point answers for the questions like Wats ur gre- xxx, %- xxx doesnt show my confidence nor strenghts of my profile. 

Here I realized with these kind of acads and gre, we cannot get a visa. I thought explaining him my profile in much details than a Consultancies mock intrvw preparation with defined answers.

Here comes my Interview for the 3rd time-. 

VO:gud mrng sir,hw u doing.
me:doing good dear john elvin.

VO:hw come u knw my name?
me:hav seen U at OUCIP and many of ur photos in a blog.

vo
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/redface.pnghhh.thats fine.which time r u applying to??
me:3rd time 

vo:alright,what ar ur academics
me:57%

vo:gre??
me:850

vo:backlogs::
me:a total of 11,but only 4 belong to my CS course .

vo:sorry,u r'nt qualified with the US laws.u can find in reason in this slip.
me:sir,frm last 2 times,I was given the same 214b slip.But i couldnt find any justified for my rejection in it.

vo:as u hav low acads and gre,U cannot compete with US students over there.
me
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/redface.pngk sir.I agree.Can I speak for 1 min if u permit??

vo
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/redface.pngkk,go onn.
me:sir,for the first time,I was rejected bcoz low school.and 2nd time,I didnt find any proper reason.But,as I hav already completed my Btech i.e undergraduate,I cannot improve my UG % or my backlogs.
let me tell u 1 thing that,Our curriculum is a mixture of all engineering subjects,where an CS student faces electrical and mechanical subjects.To me,though my backlogs sounds heavy,only 3-4 were of my CS related subjects rest all are out of my preferred.
As i was rejected for 2 times,to test my capabilities,had given a job trial in the market and got a job.so that it can proove that am eligible for the skills a company require.
to over come my GRE,i hav an internship program with a company and it can b used as wrk xperince.

am saying all these,to proove that am capable in skills required for doing Master's.here are the proof's for those(passed certificates).

vo:U hav got lot of oppurtunities in India.U hav good universities.y dnt u do u MS here.
me:gud suggestion sir.but to get an admit in India,ther r many factors which reflect in india for admission for xample like-reservation quota,locality preference,recommendations.Where in US,we can get our admission purely based on our acads and Stmtn of our purpose.and I hav secured my admission only based on my project related to networking.even my intership is of the same.

vo:hey,got impressed with ur answers.but i cant compete with ur previous visa intrvw's and go across to theri decision.sorry.
me
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/frown.pngwith a smile),if so,there are many cases in hyd who got their visas in their 3rd attmtp,6th attempt,11th attempt.
vo:y u all guys waste ur money.

me:that is our strong zeal for our MS to gain an international MS award frm prestigious country like US.
vo:there r many univ's here in india itself and u can get more options for ur careeer growth.am i right??

me:i agreee with u sir.but there wnt b any change frm the Ug and our Mtech course curriculum.though we get a Degree,its completely related to theory subjs where we lag in practical knwledge.for example,we r taught hw write a prgm,but still we dnt knw hw it implement it and what goes goes inside when we gor for compilation.it matters frm our Mtech to MS.

vo:
u hav got prepared well man.gr8 job.but,its out of my hands.cant do anythng.
me:no problem sir.but to me,Masters is a challenge to proove myslef infront of my parents and my GIRl.atleast for that i will reapply again.

but where am confused is that,i still hanvt found to what changes do i need to make atleast for 4th time.this is wat worrying me.anyhw sir,today am happy for atleast having a long session with U.thanx for ur time.
vo:gud luck sir.hav a nice day.

me:u too.bye.

F1 Visa Interview Approval in 4th Attempt

After a week of depressions, I've made a recap of my interview for more than 50 times and then got the point for my rejection. All the explanation or the conversations has started after the decision has been Made. Here I understand that VISA officer thought of issuing a visa. But cannot cahnge the decision once it has entered into this syst. 

So, Just gave a gap of 6 months gained some work experince and gave a try again-

Atlast here comes my final entry into the Consulate and came out with teen maar dance-

Officer- pass ur docs
Me- has given my Ds-160, passport and sevis.

Officer- She scanned my ds-160 and busy with reading my previous visa intrvw officer comments,
Me- Officer, I would like to reduce ur stress by explaing my case in much detail. 

Officer- Sorry..........!!!!!!!!!!!!!!(with a confused expression)
Me- I would like to explain you those comments and my profile in much detail than it is in your syst.

officer- Ok , tell me. 
Me- Frankly speaking this is my 4th attempt for the VISA and yes, atlast I realized that I was rejected coz of low acads and GRE. I came to know that these two factors play a key role for qualifying a visa. 
To explain u about my case, I'm done with my UG in 2011 and now I cant make any changes to my % or my count of backlogs. So I'm helpless in this. When GRE is considered, I think I dont hav to retake it again, when i was given an admit from an univ with this score. 

I agree, its wholelymy responsibility to proove that am eligible for VISa. without knowing this, I tried for past 3 times but in vain. I was rejected coz I always tried to support the negatives of my profile but no where, shown the positives of my profile. 

Here I come today, though I had low acads, I'm currently working in Amazon.com with same aggregate from past 8 months. I have 11 backlogs, But I hav more than 20 extra curricular certificates which makes me special when compared to others. Here are the certificates. Passeed on my PPT particiapation, Best empoyee certf, etc etc etc

Today, I'm very much comfortable with my Job. But there is something lagging caled Knowledge when compared to my collegues and experince, lacking in practical work. To overcome, I've again decided to apply for only to US visa and today here I'm.

Officer- she took the certificates and had a stare to them for atleast 2 minutes. Okay, how long r u working with Amazon
Me- From past 8 months. Here are my salary slips and officer Indentiy card. 
Officer- wat is ur role in Amazon.
Me- Amazon has recently launched a device Kindle Fire , a competetion for Iphone. My job is to resolve customers technical isuses with those devices. 
Officer- Y did u choose this univ.
Me- My undergrad professor is from the same univ and suggested me this coz networking course curriculum which helps me for current operations at Amazon.
Officer- How many backlogs do U have. 
Me- 11. (and I explained the same reason which I've given at my 3rd intrvw)
Officer- Where exactly r u going to Us.
Me- Commerce, 65 miles away from Dallas. Its in state of texas. 
Officer- What are ur plans after Ms.
Me- I havnet resigned my job. I just took a gap of 2 years with my managers permission and my Job wil b as it is after my renttry into Amazon. So, will b back after getting certified in US. 
Officer- how r u going to manage ur funds-
Me- my father is xxx, having a savings of xxx and for safe side, a loan amount ofxxxx...............

She took my i20, typed for almost more than 2 minutes and then finally she said- Sir,
am approving ur visa and u'll recevie ur passport in 3 business days
. I wish U all the best sir. 
Me- Thank U mam.
Officer- I like ur frankness. 
Me- Thank U . Thank U a lot.

F1 visa Rejection - Bank Balance Problem
INTERVIEW :- 18TH MAY
Visa Type: F1 Visa
US Consulate: HYDERABAD
F1 Visa Status: REJECTED

My Experience:

ME:- HELLO , GUD MRNG SIRE
VO :- GUD MRNG
VO :- WAT'S WORK ?
ME:- I WORK IN A COLG TEACHING ENGG DRAWING
VO :- WAT MAKE THIS UNIV DIFF FROM OTHER UNIV'S
ME:- THIS UNIV OFFERS GUD DESIGNING COURSE,
VO :- ASKED THE SAME QUESTION AGAIN?
ME:- EVEN I SAID DA SAME AGAIN
 
VO :- HE SAID I THINK YOU HAVE MEMORIZED UR ANSWER (WAS A BIT ANOYED)
ME :- NO SIRE NOT AT ALL.
VO:- WEN WERE U PASSED OUT ?
ME :- 2011
VO :- WATS U %AGE "?
ME :- 69.79%
VO:-GRE?
ME:- 298
VO:- SHOW ME UR SCORE CARD ?
ME :- SHOWED
VO:- SHOW ME UR BANK PASSBOOKS ?
ME :- HDFC DONT HAVE PASSBOKS SO , I MESSED I GAVE MY BANK STATEMNETS HAD NRTHING MUCH MONEY ALL TOGETHER OF JUST 3.5LCS
VO:-
HE SAID U DONT HAVE SUFFICIENT FUNDS?
ME :- I TOTALLY LOST CONTROL OF THE SITUATION HERE ....
VO:- WATS UR FAMILI'S INCOME "
ME :- 9-10 LACS
VO:-UR I-20 shows ur source has 24000$
 
me:- i said i have FD'S and also a loan of 10 lacs,, but he was not ready to listen
vo:-Then he saw my postal saving passbooks
me:- he typed sumthing
vo :- da same bloody dialogue sry i cant give u ....bloody f88k and all
me:- bloody asshole (dint say this)

I was rejected visa yesterday I had fixed deposits of 10 lacs but wat i did was i dint show it in my accounts , i thought evn fixed deposits are also treatd as liquid cash, so th VO said dat u have in sufficeint funds , now do i require to cam=ncel the FD'S and transfer to my account and take the statement, at the end wat he said was " Uodnt have sufficient balance" plz come again. Help me

F1 Visa Interview - Hyderabad US Consulate
Got Visa to UTD-MSEE Approved after 1week without 221g

Visa experience:
Consulate: Hyderabad
university: UTD-MSEE
Decision: Approved after 1week without 221g
Date: 23rd may
 

My slot was at 11.15am and I was allowed to enter the consulate at around 10.45. After entering the consulate, have gone through the normal procedure of scanning the docs and fingerprint scanning and after almost 1hr later was given a token number of E202 and counter 11.
My interview was literally done TWICE and here it goes.

COUNTER #11
Me: Good Afternoon Sir, how r u? (smiling)
VO1: Hi, pass me ur passport (not smiling and his age probably in late 20’s)
1st question and its different from what I saw the experiences from past 1yr in FB
VO1: Did u go to a consultancy??
Me: No sir
He was trying to trick me where watching the system he told me
VO1: No u r lying to me..u went to a consultancy
Me: Certainly no sir, I never approached any consultancy
The VO was frustrated by that time bcoz of the interviews from morning and he asked the same question and the same answer repeated for the next 2min and he was literally asking me to get out from there and finally he told me to wait for 10min in the lobby and that he’ll call me again.
I thought that was the end of my interview and sat in the lobby expecting to get an another chance after 10min. After 10min, an Indian official was handed my passport and he called my name and handed it over to me and asked me to stand in another counter(#12) for the interview again wherein I understood that the previous officer was not in a mood to take the interview and so left the counter.
The VO2 was also in his late 20s and he was accepting applicants before me and my interview goes like this.

COUNTER #12
Me: good afternoon sir, how u doing?(again smiling )
VO2: Hey how r u (expressions better then VO1).Pass me ur passport.
Me: Sure sir.
VO2: (Again the same question) Did u approach a consultancy.Tell me truth bcoz I had given a reject to one student who went but told me that he didn’t.
Me: No sir I applied on my own and my sis was also in US with her husband till 2011 where she suggested me some universities to apply for.
VO2: she is in US now?
Me: no sir
VO2:Ok fine wats ur agg and number of backlogs?
Me:68 and 1 backlog sir
VO2:gre?
Me:304
VO2: Pass me ur scorecard and tell me which univ?
Me: passed the scorecard and told him UTD
 
VO2: Why this univ?
ME: Told
He was listening but was more busy typing something in the system
VO2: where did u fill ur DS form?
Me: home sir.
VO2:how many univ did u apply and wat r they?
Me:5 sir and told them
VO2: Pass me ur marksheets
Me: He was somewhat convinced with my answers by this time.
VO2: Who is sponsoring u and how do u pay ur fee?
Me: my parents sir and told the finances
 
VO2 asked me to show the proof of finances and I passed him the passbook and FD’s.
He took them and arranged them in order and lifted the bunch when I thought he was issuing me visa but instead he told me to wait again for 5min
I thought WTF? No one was waiting like that and I was almost the last person in the consulate whose interview is still going on.
After 2min the VO2 called me to another counter and asked me to leave the consulate and told me that they would check if the finances r genuine and if they are genuine, they’ll issue me a VISA. I was not given 221g but my passport was retained by them which was some positive sign. After all that happened in the consulate, I was continuously checking my passport status for the next 2days to hear the good news.
Finally on 29th my passport status changed, got an email and also a message at the same time indicating that my passport is ready and can collect it between 3-4. I was really happy that I had finally got it and it is stamped for 5yrs
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png

P.S: CONFIDENCE REALLY MATTERS. Both the officers were playing a game asking whether I approached a consultancy but I was firm on my answer that I dint go and they were convinced with my answer.
Finally this is what I was waiting for more than 1 yr to post (not the interview :P)
US VISA
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png
HOPE THIS HELPS SOMEONE
 

Got F1 Visa to University of North Carolina Charlotte in Hyderabad

Student's F1 Visa Aproved for
 University of North Carolina Charlotte in Hyderabad US Consulate. Student applied for Computer Science program at UNCC.

My VI Experience #2
Consulate: Hyderabad
Date: 22/05/2012 Time: 11:00 AM
Destination: University of North Carolina Charlotte
Status: Approved

I reached the consulate late at 11:15 AM. After completing all the formalities I got the token number issued. Sat somewhere and relaxing as I thought I had plenty of time.But suddenly 2 counters were opened and people over there directed a bunch of F-1 applicants to those counters including me.
 

I was freaked out because I was expecting atleast 30 minutes of time for my token number to appear.

VO is a young guy in early 30's. Approved two girls infront of me. My turn.

Me: Good afternoon sir. How are you?
VO: I am fine what about you? and please pass the documents.

Me: I am fine sir. Passed the documents.
VO: What program are you going to study at UNCC?

Me: Computer Science with a specialization in Game Developmet sir.
VO: How did you come to know about UNCC and your program

Me: told about IGDA and all...
VO: Typed for some time and asked there are several universities offering game dev programs why did you opt for UNCC?

Me: Told about the game lab and professors. Explained about the student projects etc.
VO: Types and checks the UNCC site for the info what I said. I saw because the green glare of UNCC website reflected.

VO: So have you developed any games
Me: Yes sir. I have developed 2 games. Explained him about how those will work.

VO: Laughed and said I too play that game a lot
VO: Except the Indie games. Have you developed or being developed any serious games
Me: I have a game project running sir. It will take another 6 months to complete because of the heavy design.

VO: Exclaimed and said 6 months. Why so long.
Me: Officer I am basically a programmer. I need to satisfy the works of artist, animator, storyboard writer etc to develop a game. Believe me sir games are not as easy as they look. There are tons of code lines and animated moments inside a single game.

VO: It's ok. I see that you are a freelancer. How did you gain the experience.
Me: Sir I have been programming since I was 13. That made me projects come to me without any qualification either.

VO: Examined my freelance profile for a while and types for sometime
VO: So what other colleges did you apply?
Me: Told 3. RIT UNCC CSU-Chico. And told that I was looking only for game dev courses.

VO: Then Why didn't you opt for those?
Me: Told

VO: Asked me to repeat the university which offered design course as he typed in the computer and checked for the info I told.
VO: Fine. How are you planning your studies.
Me: I have xx amount in savings and xx amount in fds also explained that I don't need a bank loan and told that everything is planned for 2 years stay.

VO: Can I have those statements please.(Types)
Me: Passed

VO: What is you father? (Types)
Me: He is businessman sir.

VO: And how did a businessman got xx amount of liquid in short time
Me: Explained about the land that was sold for my education and showed him the settlement document of the land.

VO: No need. Gave the documents back after clearly checking for the exact amounts what I said.
VO: What is your father's annual income?(Types)
Me: It is around xx
 

VO: It was recorded that in the last interview, you said it was xx
Me: Sorry sir previous VO asked me about the business income not annual income. Explained about other sources and how did it make up to xx amount. Do you want to see the IT returns and respective documents sir?

VO: No need. Somewhere you said IGDA and that you are a member. What kind of benifits do you get.
Me: Explained

VO: Whats your membership name?
 
Me: Said ( as I spell it, he typed it and checked)

VO: Types seriously for several minutes. What type of games do you play.
Me: Action, racing, strategy etc. Mentioned some of my favourite games.

VO: He said ok. Took the passport as if he is giving it back to me. But wrote A on the DS form and
told your Visa is approved and you will get it in a week.

VO asked other questions also which I really cannot remember. But sure this is 95% of the interview.

I walked out of the consulate with raised head. I felt that I deserve U.S VISA because of the Interview experiences in first and second ones.

Looked straight into the eyes and spoken loudly. I did not smile much but maintained professional gestures and attire while I am talking.

Really confidence is the key for VISA interviews. I felt and experienced that.

End of my Interview..............

Student's Successful F1 Visa Experience on 4th attempt. Student Visa Rejected 3 times. Applies to Visa Interview with Low Ranked School (Sacred Heart University) and Low GRE - 850.

F1 Visa Rejected in 3rd attempt

I was rejected twice before this third attempt bcoz of low schol(sacred heart univ) and then becuasue of Low profile. Then I realized that giving him a point answers for the questions like Wats ur gre- xxx, %- xxx doesnt show my confidence nor strenghts of my profile. 

Here I realized with these kind of acads and gre, we cannot get a visa. I thought explaining him my profile in much details than a Consultancies mock intrvw preparation with defined answers.

Here comes my Interview for the 3rd time-. 

VO:gud mrng sir,hw u doing.
me:doing good dear john elvin.

VO:hw come u knw my name?
me:hav seen U at OUCIP and many of ur photos in a blog.

vo
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/redface.pnghhh.thats fine.which time r u applying to??
me:3rd time 

vo:alright,what ar ur academics
me:57%

vo:gre??
me:850

vo:backlogs::
me:a total of 11,but only 4 belong to my CS course .

vo:sorry,u r'nt qualified with the US laws.u can find in reason in this slip.
me:sir,frm last 2 times,I was given the same 214b slip.But i couldnt find any justified for my rejection in it.

vo:as u hav low acads and gre,U cannot compete with US students over there.
me
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/redface.pngk sir.I agree.Can I speak for 1 min if u permit??

vo
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/redface.pngkk,go onn.
me:sir,for the first time,I was rejected bcoz low school.and 2nd time,I didnt find any proper reason.But,as I hav already completed my Btech i.e undergraduate,I cannot improve my UG % or my backlogs.
let me tell u 1 thing that,Our curriculum is a mixture of all engineering subjects,where an CS student faces electrical and mechanical subjects.To me,though my backlogs sounds heavy,only 3-4 were of my CS related subjects rest all are out of my preferred.
As i was rejected for 2 times,to test my capabilities,had given a job trial in the market and got a job.so that it can proove that am eligible for the skills a company require.
to over come my GRE,i hav an internship program with a company and it can b used as wrk xperince.

am saying all these,to proove that am capable in skills required for doing Master's.here are the proof's for those(passed certificates).

vo:U hav got lot of oppurtunities in India.U hav good universities.y dnt u do u MS here.
me:gud suggestion sir.but to get an admit in India,ther r many factors which reflect in india for admission for xample like-reservation quota,locality preference,recommendations.Where in US,we can get our admission purely based on our acads and Stmtn of our purpose.and I hav secured my admission only based on my project related to networking.even my intership is of the same.

vo:hey,got impressed with ur answers.but i cant compete with ur previous visa intrvw's and go across to theri decision.sorry.
me
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/frown.pngwith a smile),if so,there are many cases in hyd who got their visas in their 3rd attmtp,6th attempt,11th attempt.
vo:y u all guys waste ur money.

me:that is our strong zeal for our MS to gain an international MS award frm prestigious country like US.
vo:there r many univ's here in india itself and u can get more options for ur careeer growth.am i right??

me:i agreee with u sir.but there wnt b any change frm the Ug and our Mtech course curriculum.though we get a Degree,its completely related to theory subjs where we lag in practical knwledge.for example,we r taught hw write a prgm,but still we dnt knw hw it implement it and what goes goes inside when we gor for compilation.it matters frm our Mtech to MS.

vo:u hav got prepared well man.gr8 job.but,its out of my hands.cant do anythng.
me:no problem sir.but to me,Masters is a challenge to proove myslef infront of my parents and my GIRl.atleast for that i will reapply again.

but where am confused is that,i still hanvt found to what changes do i need to make atleast for 4th time.this is wat worrying me.anyhw sir,today am happy for atleast having a long session with U.thanx for ur time.
vo:gud luck sir.hav a nice day.

me:u too.bye.

F1 Visa Interview Approval in 4th Attempt

After a week of depressions, I've made a recap of my interview for more than 50 times and then got the point for my rejection. All the explanation or the conversations has started after the decision has been Made. Here I understand that VISA officer thought of issuing a visa. But cannot cahnge the decision once it has entered into this syst. 

So, Just gave a gap of 6 months gained some work experince and gave a try again-

Atlast here comes my final entry into the Consulate and came out with teen maar dance-

Officer- pass ur docs
Me- has given my Ds-160, passport and sevis.

Officer- She scanned my ds-160 and busy with reading my previous visa intrvw officer comments,
Me- Officer, I would like to reduce ur stress by explaing my case in much detail. 

Officer- Sorry..........!!!!!!!!!!!!!!(with a confused expression)
Me- I would like to explain you those comments and my profile in much detail than it is in your syst.

officer- Ok , tell me. 
Me- Frankly speaking this is my 4th attempt for the VISA and yes, atlast I realized that I was rejected coz of low acads and GRE. I came to know that these two factors play a key role for qualifying a visa. 
To explain u about my case, I'm done with my UG in 2011 and now I cant make any changes to my % or my count of backlogs. So I'm helpless in this. When GRE is considered, I think I dont hav to retake it again, when i was given an admit from an univ with this score. 

I agree, its wholelymy responsibility to proove that am eligible for VISa. without knowing this, I tried for past 3 times but in vain. I was rejected coz I always tried to support the negatives of my profile but no where, shown the positives of my profile. 

Here I come today, though I had low acads, I'm currently working in Amazon.com with same aggregate from past 8 months. I have 11 backlogs, But I hav more than 20 extra curricular certificates which makes me special when compared to others. Here are the certificates. Passeed on my PPT particiapation, Best empoyee certf, etc etc etc

Today, I'm very much comfortable with my Job. But there is something lagging caled Knowledge when compared to my collegues and experince, lacking in practical work. To overcome, I've again decided to apply for only to US visa and today here I'm.

Officer- she took the certificates and had a stare to them for atleast 2 minutes. Okay, how long r u working with Amazon
Me- From past 8 months. Here are my salary slips and officer Indentiy card. 
Officer- wat is ur role in Amazon.
Me- Amazon has recently launched a device Kindle Fire , a competetion for Iphone. My job is to resolve customers technical isuses with those devices. 
Officer- Y did u choose this univ.
Me- My undergrad professor is from the same univ and suggested me this coz networking course curriculum which helps me for current operations at Amazon.
Officer- How many backlogs do U have. 
Me- 11. (and I explained the same reason which I've given at my 3rd intrvw)
Officer- Where exactly r u going to Us.
Me- Commerce, 65 miles away from Dallas. Its in state of texas. 
Officer- What are ur plans after Ms.
Me- I havnet resigned my job. I just took a gap of 2 years with my managers permission and my Job wil b as it is after my renttry into Amazon. So, will b back after getting certified in US. 
Officer- how r u going to manage ur funds-
Me- my father is xxx, having a savings of xxx and for safe side, a loan amount ofxxxx...............

She took my i20, typed for almost more than 2 minutes and then finally she said- Sir
, am approving ur visa and u'll recevie ur passport in 3 business days. I wish U all the best sir. 
Me- Thank U mam.
Officer- I like ur frankness. 
Me- Thank U . Thank U a lot.
Lot of Student attend for F1 visa Interview in Hyderabad. This article gives information about F1 Visa Interview information and experiences in Hyderabad US Consulate.



F1 Visa Interview - Hyderabad US Consulate
Got Visa to UTD-MSEE Approved after 1week without 221g

Visa experience:
Consulate: Hyderabad
university: UTD-MSEE
Decision: Approved after 1week without 221g
Date: 23rd may
 

My slot was at 11.15am and I was allowed to enter the consulate at around 10.45. After entering the consulate, have gone through the normal procedure of scanning the docs and fingerprint scanning and after almost 1hr later was given a token number of E202 and counter 11.
My interview was literally done TWICE and here it goes.

COUNTER #11
Me: Good Afternoon Sir, how r u? (smiling)
VO1: Hi, pass me ur passport (not smiling and his age probably in late 20’s)
1st question and its different from what I saw the experiences from past 1yr in FB
VO1: Did u go to a consultancy??
Me: No sir
He was trying to trick me where watching the system he told me
VO1: No u r lying to me..u went to a consultancy
Me: Certainly no sir, I never approached any consultancy
The VO was frustrated by that time bcoz of the interviews from morning and he asked the same question and the same answer repeated for the next 2min and he was literally asking me to get out from there and finally he told me to wait for 10min in the lobby and that he’ll call me again.
I thought that was the end of my interview and sat in the lobby expecting to get an another chance after 10min. After 10min, an Indian official was handed my passport and he called my name and handed it over to me and asked me to stand in another counter(#12) for the interview again wherein I understood that the previous officer was not in a mood to take the interview and so left the counter.
The VO2 was also in his late 20s and he was accepting applicants before me and my interview goes like this.

COUNTER #12
Me: good afternoon sir, how u doing?(again smiling )
VO2: Hey how r u (expressions better then VO1).Pass me ur passport.
Me: Sure sir.
VO2: (Again the same question) Did u approach a consultancy.Tell me truth bcoz I had given a reject to one student who went but told me that he didn’t.
Me: No sir I applied on my own and my sis was also in US with her husband till 2011 where she suggested me some universities to apply for.
VO2: she is in US now?
Me: no sir
VO2:Ok fine wats ur agg and number of backlogs?
Me:68 and 1 backlog sir
VO2:gre?
Me:304
VO2: Pass me ur scorecard and tell me which univ?
Me: passed the scorecard and told him UTD
 
VO2: Why this univ?
ME: Told
He was listening but was more busy typing something in the system
VO2: where did u fill ur DS form?
Me: home sir.
VO2:how many univ did u apply and wat r they?
Me:5 sir and told them
VO2: Pass me ur marksheets
Me: He was somewhat convinced with my answers by this time.
VO2: Who is sponsoring u and how do u pay ur fee?
Me: my parents sir and told the finances
 
VO2 asked me to show the proof of finances and I passed him the passbook and FD’s.
He took them and arranged them in order and lifted the bunch when I thought he was issuing me visa but instead he told me to wait again for 5min
I thought WTF? No one was waiting like that and I was almost the last person in the consulate whose interview is still going on.
After 2min the VO2 called me to another counter and asked me to leave the consulate and told me that they would check if the finances r genuine and if they are genuine, they’ll issue me a VISA. I was not given 221g but my passport was retained by them which was some positive sign. After all that happened in the consulate, I was continuously checking my passport status for the next 2days to hear the good news.
Finally on 29th my passport status changed, got an email and also a message at the same time indicating that my passport is ready and can collect it between 3-4. I was really happy that I had finally got it and it is stamped for 5yrs
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png

P.S: CONFIDENCE REALLY MATTERS. Both the officers were playing a game asking whether I approached a consultancy but I was firm on my answer that I dint go and they were convinced with my answer.
Finally this is what I was waiting for more than 1 yr to post (not the interview :P)
US VISA
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png
HOPE THIS HELPS SOMEONE
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png

Got F1 Visa to University of North Carolina Charlotte in Hyderabad

Student's F1 Visa Aproved for
 University of North Carolina Charlotte in Hyderabad US Consulate. Student applied for Computer Science program at UNCC.

My VI Experience #2
Consulate: Hyderabad
Date: 22/05/2012 Time: 11:00 AM
Destination: University of North Carolina Charlotte
Status: Approved

I reached the consulate late at 11:15 AM. After completing all the formalities I got the token number issued. Sat somewhere and relaxing as I thought I had plenty of time.But suddenly 2 counters were opened and people over there directed a bunch of F-1 applicants to those counters including me.
 

I was freaked out because I was expecting atleast 30 minutes of time for my token number to appear.

VO is a young guy in early 30's. Approved two girls infront of me. My turn.

Me: Good afternoon sir. How are you?
VO: I am fine what about you? and please pass the documents.

Me: I am fine sir. Passed the documents.
VO: What program are you going to study at UNCC?

Me: Computer Science with a specialization in Game Developmet sir.
VO: How did you come to know about UNCC and your program

Me: told about IGDA and all...
VO: Typed for some time and asked there are several universities offering game dev programs why did you opt for UNCC?

Me: Told about the game lab and professors. Explained about the student projects etc.
VO: Types and checks the UNCC site for the info what I said. I saw because the green glare of UNCC website reflected.

VO: So have you developed any games
Me: Yes sir. I have developed 2 games. Explained him about how those will work.

VO: Laughed and said I too play that game a lot
VO: Except the Indie games. Have you developed or being developed any serious games
Me: I have a game project running sir. It will take another 6 months to complete because of the heavy design.

VO: Exclaimed and said 6 months. Why so long.
Me: Officer I am basically a programmer. I need to satisfy the works of artist, animator, storyboard writer etc to develop a game. Believe me sir games are not as easy as they look. There are tons of code lines and animated moments inside a single game.

VO: It's ok. I see that you are a freelancer. How did you gain the experience.
Me: Sir I have been programming since I was 13. That made me projects come to me without any qualification either.

VO: Examined my freelance profile for a while and types for sometime
VO: So what other colleges did you apply?
Me: Told 3. RIT UNCC CSU-Chico. And told that I was looking only for game dev courses.

VO: Then Why didn't you opt for those?
Me: Told

VO: Asked me to repeat the university which offered design course as he typed in the computer and checked for the info I told.
VO: Fine. How are you planning your studies.
Me: I have xx amount in savings and xx amount in fds also explained that I don't need a bank loan and told that everything is planned for 2 years stay.

VO: Can I have those statements please.(Types)
Me: Passed

VO: What is you father? (Types)
Me: He is businessman sir.

VO: And how did a businessman got xx amount of liquid in short time
Me: Explained about the land that was sold for my education and showed him the settlement document of the land.

VO: No need. Gave the documents back after clearly checking for the exact amounts what I said.
VO: What is your father's annual income?(Types)
Me: It is around xx
 

VO: It was recorded that in the last interview, you said it was xx
Me: Sorry sir previous VO asked me about the business income not annual income. Explained about other sources and how did it make up to xx amount. Do you want to see the IT returns and respective documents sir?

VO: No need. Somewhere you said IGDA and that you are a member. What kind of benifits do you get.
Me: Explained

VO: Whats your membership name?
 
Me: Said ( as I spell it, he typed it and checked)

VO: Types seriously for several minutes. What type of games do you play.
Me: Action, racing, strategy etc. Mentioned some of my favourite games.

VO: He said ok. Took the passport as if he is giving it back to me. But wrote A on the DS form and told your Visa is approved and you will get it in a week.

VO asked other questions also which I really cannot remember. But sure this is 95% of the interview.

I walked out of the consulate with raised head. I felt that I deserve U.S VISA because of the Interview experiences in first and second ones.

Looked straight into the eyes and spoken loudly. I did not smile much but maintained professional gestures and attire while I am talking.

Really confidence is the key for VISA interviews. I felt and experienced that.

End of my Interview..............


Shashank Akula
Date: Nov 23rd, Hyderabad
Status: Approved
Backlogs:2

Me: Good Afternoon sir (with smile)
VO: Good Afternoon
VO: Oh u already got a visa for USA
Me: yes sir. I have recieved B1 visa for some XXXX reason.
VO: Where did u go ?
Me: Places like NY, NJ, Orlando, Atlantic City, Niagara falls.
VO: Wow Some nice places, u must have enjoyed a lot.
Me: yes sir
VO: Ok now lets come to ur academics, What's u r gre score ?
Me: 1110 sir
VO: Toefl ?
Me: 94
VO: Ug percentage?
Me: 69%, Missed distinction by mere 1% sir.
VO: How Many BackLogs ?
Me: 2 sir
VO: thats a good profile.
VO: Why university?
Me: Arkansas Tech University for XXXX reasons (here i gave 5 reasons and some proff names)
VO: ok,How Many university's did u apply?
Me: 4 sir started telling there names, UHCL, ATU, LTU, university of Texas,San Marcos.
And i have all the four admits sir.
VO: fine 
Started typing and said those magical words "
U R VISA IS GRANTED SIR, U WILL GET U R PASSPORT WITH IN 3 DAYS"
Thats it guys.

Spring 2014 F1 Visa Interview at Chennai Consulate for University of Texas, Dallas (UT, Dallas).

Spring 2014 F1 Visa Interview for UT, Dallas

Date : 4th Oct 2013
Time : 9:00 AM slot

VO: Hiii

Me: Good morning sir

VO : Pass me your passport

Me: Sir My Passport and I-20

VO: Where are you heading for ?

Me: To pusrue Master's program in University of Texas at Dallas

VO: When does your program start?

Me: Jan 13,2014

VO : Any other admits ?

Me : Yes Sir 2 more. One from UIC and one more from Colorado State University

VO: Score cards please

Me: Here Sir... (passed my TOEFL and GMAT score sheets)

VO: Looked at the score sheets (Eye brows raised and smiled at me) .
No probs your VISA is approved.

Me: Thank you Sir 

Interview took not more than 30 seconds !!

Hi friends , Here goes my visa interview experiences. I got F1 visa in 5th attempt, Rejected 4 times. - Sateesh Konda.

This is 5th attempt . i hope my exp will help you all , who are rejected before...
1st attempt : Hyderabad----2011---Sacred Heart University---rejected
reason : i dint catch the question she asked that am a BONAFIDE student or not.

2nd attempt : chennai-----2011---SHU----Rejected
reason : no particular reason , but i gave a good wishes to him , while am returning back, with a big smile and huge disappointment inside.
.
3rd attempt : chennai ----2013---University of central missouri----rejected
reason : she asked you came couple of times before,what changes you have made, while am speaking she interrupted and said her decision(rejected) .

4th attempt : chennai---2013----UCM----rejetced ...
reason : she asked my particularly about my academics, and typed for 2 mins and still denied ..gave my passport back.

5th attempt : hyderabad ---2013---UCM---approved ...
conversation starts here .
Me : Gg mg mam , how are you ? 

VO : am fine what about you ? pass your docs

Me : am fine too , gave my passport I20

VO : she scanned and asked me "you went to delhi last time ,and your visa got denied , right ?

Me : No mam , i attended in chennai for couple of times ,( she looked at me suddenly to check my expression)

VO : okay last time , u came wit SHU , now whic university .

Me : UCM mam .

VO : how many admits you got and how many I20's you got.

Me : applied for 4 , got 3 admits ,got 2 I20's .

VO : whats the other I20 , why only UCM .

Me :UCM has a good course curriculum , Quality research XXXXXXXX( id ont know what i am speaking , but confidence was at peek and used some technical subject names)

VO : which year passed out , aggregate , any backlogs 

Me : 2011,no backlogs 66%.( and i was expecting a question wat i did all these days)

VO : what you did all these days .

Me : XXXX as a intern , and working with XXX as paid inter . (true experience)

VO : what you will with this degree after masters.

Me : i return back to INDIA

VO : i dont care you come back or not , what ypu will with this degree.

Me : i like to fetch a job in top MNC core companies like XXX ZZZZ , which is related to my masters specialization subject.

VO : which company , why that company ?

Me : XXX as it needs a database management system, it will help to build my career.

VO : who is your sponsor , what your father do , whats his annual income.

Me : father , doing business from past 30 years , 00 lkhs annum,

VO : (silently typed for 2 minutes)

Me : i interrupted and said about my bank loan and fixed deposit, savings.

VO : tell me that company name again ,that u wanna work for in future

Me : said ( she started Typing again for 1 minute and asked all the above questions again and took my details into system .

VO : if you gonna let me down , i will find you at US,put your right hand , am approving the visa.

Me : thank you mam , i wont let you down,and said than you again and again while am turing back with my documents.
VO : get out of her , ( i almost crossed the counter and turned at her again saying thank you)

Me : thank you 
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png
VO : study well there with a happy smile 
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.png

Visa rejected in Hyderabad for California state university East bay.
Hello every one,

I am posting this exp. to get Ur valuable suggestions. On what are all the changes that I ve to make to apply again.

Hyderabad
25 June 2013
8:30 AM

I have seen 3 interview before me 2 women and a man. The VO was a young lady good looking of course.1st the man.seems to have come for 2nd time rejected. 2nd girl for F1 approved straight away without troubling her much. Next women married must b going as a dependent. The VO called for a translator and went through the interview, the women could not even speak but was granted visa. My turn now. Here is how it goes..

Me: Gud mrng mam.(Dint notice or listen so wished again louder this time)
Vo: Gud mrng. Pass me your passport.
Me: Sure, here mam.
VO: What is the year of your graduation?
Me: 2009 mam.(Short because previously I saw her interupting a girl when she want to give a long ans)
Vo: What hve u been doin since then?
Me: I have been working as xxxxxxx in xx company.
 
Vo: What is your income?
Me: 3 laks per anum.
Vo: You r earning gud then y do you want to study again?
Me: Mam, I feel my growth is stagnated to a certain level in my current job and I want to switch to computer network which is of great demand which help me to establish myself in a gud position.
Vo: Y did you choose this university.
Me: California state university has inovative and dynamic curriculam which is designed by xxxx univesity, my field of interest is xxxxx and this curriculam is the same as that of xxxx university. I want to specialize in this subject under the guidence of Dr xxxxxxxx.(This is where I ve been thinking I went wrong)
Vo: How many backlogs do you have
Me: None mam.(She typed for some time and gave my I-20 back)
Vo: Please place your four finger.
Me: Right hand mam?(I thought she approved it)
VO: Yes.
(Now she returned my passport back along with a goddam brocher.)
VO: Sorry sir I cannot issue the visa this time.
Me: May I know if there is any reason for this.
Vo: No sir we wont give any specific reasons. go through the brocher.

Friends, I was very confident while answering but I m not sure what went wrong. Now My problem is I want to go to chennai this time within a week time. I know the first que would b "What changes have you made." I need some suggestion based on my interview.


Thank you very much for your support and suggestion guys..
Finally I got my visa approved at Chennai...
Here is the interview:

Me: Gud mrng sir. H r u today?
Vo: Great h r u man?
Me: I gud sir.
Vo: Give me ur passport
Me: Sure sir.
Vo: Which Univ?
Me: California state university, east bay(Dint change from the last time hoping that would explain my interest in college but not in place or country).
Vo: What will you study there.
Me: Masters in computer systems network and telecom sir.
Vo: Hmm.. What is ur undergraduate % or GPA what ever and how many backlogs?
Me: told
(Then he had gone through my application)
Vo: So, you were denied at hyderabad?
Me: Yes sir on 24th of june.
Vo: And also in 2011.
Me: Yes sir at the Delhi consulate.(He was going through my application all this time was not typing anything, must have read the comments of previous interview).
He threw my passport into the basket.
Vo: U get it this time.(It was not clear to me and I dint bother as well because I knew when its thrown i m done just my assumption that he said u get it.)
Me: Thank you sir.(Walked away dint look back or ask for clarification)

Infact I was out of my mind when I see that, I say "see that" because I did not even listen to what he said and did not recover for the next 15 to 20 minutes. Seriously friends my long wait has come to an end..


F1 Visa Interview experience of Natang Salgia in Mumbai US Consulate for USC. His F1 visa got rejcted first time and approved in second attempt.

F1 Visa Interview in Mumbai Consulate
VISA APPROVED | MUMBAI CONSULATE (both attempts) | 1st attempt:6th June | 2nd attempt:18th June | USC | MS CS

DISCLAIMER: ANSWERS GIVEN HERE, FOR FIRST INTERVIEW, MAY NOT BE EXACTLY HOW I HAD ANSWERED. BUT RESEMBLES WHAT I HAD ANSWERED! Its a long post (4 pages pf MS Word) It has transcripts of 2 interviews,probable reasons for reject, why i included certain points in my answers, changes done for second interview, tips, it is for worst case scenario. not everyone is lucky so not prepare for the best!
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.pnghope it's useful. ignore typos, spelling and grammatical mistakes.

6th June:

Me: Good morning ma'am.

VO: Please pass me your passport.
(Passed passport with i20 in it)

VO: so tell me why US?

ME: ma'am, curriculum in US is practical oriented. Most of the patents in the field of engineering are filed in US, which shows the level of research that takes place there. While in Indian institutes there's not much research done. Also in worldwide rankings, Indian institutes are nowhere near American schools, so why settle for substandard school in India if I can get top university like USC.

VO: What was your GRE score?

ME:1350.(she was staring at me, seemed was expecting breakup, so told her 800 in Q and 550 in verbal. gave a strange look when i said 550 in verbal and repeated it, "ok, 550 in verbal")

VO: Why master in computer science?

ME: sorry ma'am, can you please repeat the question.
(she repeated the question)
ME: Ma'am I recently gave my computer engineering final exam and would like to continue in the same field. Apart from that I have a startup company here in which I have developed few applications, all related to the field of computer science, so I would like to gain in depth knowledge in this field so as to fulfill my dream of having my own company.(i think i went overboard here, shouldn't have given additional details)

VO: Tell me about your under graduate, what was your aggregate.

ME: I recently gave my final exam for Computer Engineering and my aggregate is 72.18%.

(She asked me something about GRE, i didn't get her so asked her to repeat. She didn't rep[eat question and asked for GRE score card, said I’ll see it by myself)

VO: Any backlogs?

ME: no.

VO: Parents annual income.

ME: Annual income is around XX lakh rupees.

VO: what do they do?

ME: (told)

VO: How much saving do they have in bank?

ME: $xx in bank, FD and cash (total more than i20 amount). And we also have other assets worth $xxx and properties worth $xxx.

VO: What assets exactly?

ME: Ma'am, nsc, kvp, shares, jewellery.

VO: But your i20 says $51k for one year so you will need $100k. This will wipe off all your savings.

ME: ma'am the savings is for one year, in fact more than what i will need for first year. But we have nsc, kvp, shares, jewellery worth $xxx which can be converted to liquid cash anytime we need. And we have properties which can again be liquidated. So ma'am, going to USC won’t affect my parents’ standard of living here.

VO: just give me your assets summary.
(Checks it properly. typed all details into her system)

VO:
i think going here will wipe off all your savings (i tried telling her again that how it won't be a problem but she didn't let me speak) and then you might not come back. So i cant issue your visa right now.
Reasons for Visa Rejection
Probable reasons for being rejected:
1. Though confident, not concise and precise.
2. Gave out unnecessary details.
3. Complicated my financial report by showing sub-totals of liquid, other investments and properties.
4. I talk very fast much have confused her further.
5. She was not in a mood because I know financially my parents can sponsor my education at USC without any additional burden, okay, without any significant additional burden.
Visa Interview experience in Mumbai Consulate - 2nd attempt
18th June (have mentioned reason(s) in parenthesis for why I purposely included certain points in my answers):

Me: Good morning ma’am!
VO: Hi, good morning!

VO: So tell me why USC?
ME: My interest lies in data mining and web/mobile application designing. USC has 5 dedicated laboratories for database and related field, and one dedicated lab for data mining and machine learning. Also, rank wise USC is the highest ranked university from all admits that I have received. (Though I have only 7/13 admits I mentioned this because all 7 admits are from: USC, NCSU, NEU, SUNY SB, NYU, UFL with scholarship and one worthless GMU. 6 universities from where I got rejects are ranked between 1 to 13. So I could have said though I didn’t stand chance, I wanted to try because MS is once in a lifetime opportunity)

VO: What after MS? (I went through many Vis and asked many people before finalizing on following answer, thanks to my couple of friends)
ME: I would like to be part of a research team in my field on interest as a research analyst. (At least at Mumbai Consulate don’t keep repeating ‘IN INDIA’, ‘BACK HERE IN INDIA’, and ‘WILL COME BACK TO INDIA’. Who on earth would believe that after spending $100,000k you plan to come back to India immediately! They will ask you where if they really need to know)

VO: Where? (As I said
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/wink.png)
ME: Ma’am, wherever my company asks me to. But I would PREFER INDIA. (Here I conveyed an important message: I haven’t pre-determined any country for my future job. It’s not me but my company that would take a call about it, but my preference is INDIA. If you say IN INDIA, they know/think you are being dishonest. You can’t even say US, so what to do? Well just let them know it’s not your choice! :P )

VO: Who is going to sponsor you? (I had prepared all questions related to finance quite well because that was the APPARENT reason why my visa of denied previously)
ME: my parents.

VO: What do they do?
ME: My dad by profession is a ZZZ and has his own firm HERE IN INDIA named YYY (interrupts, I think after saying firm in India she must be sure he’s not going to shift to USA)

VO: You need a $100k for your course, how are they going to sponsor? (Most awaited question, highly unexpected reaction)
ME: ma’am, my parents have total assets worth $xxx (I purposely started with grand total) out of which movable is (interrupts)

VO: How much did you say? 0_o
ME: ma’am, $xxx.

VO: Did you just say $xxx? 0_o
ME: yes ma’am, $xxx worth of total assets.

VO: Are you sure?
ME: Yes ma’am, would you like to see the summary?

VO: oh yes, I would like see your summary.
(Passed summary report that I had prepared for her quick review and didn’t get it attested or whatever the term is by a C.A. All assets in rupees and dollars @ 56)
VO: who has made this? The bank?
ME: no ma’am I have made this but i have all supporting documents.(immediately passed all originals. Saw the number of documents and returned it)

VO: oh, it’s ok. (Kept passport aside, I knew I was done here and was all set to run outside :P)

VO: your test score?
ME: 1350 in GRE…800 in quant and 550 in verbal (if you have scored good why not give detailed info :P). TOEFL 106.

VO: out of?
ME: (seriously? After approving VISA!) 120 ma’am. Would you like to see the score card?

VO: No.
You visa has been approved. Enjoy your stay at US.
ME: Thank you ma’am. Thanks a lot (in my mind: I deserved it you ……)
Changes Done for 2nd Visa Attempt
1. No sub totals in summary report.
2. Tried speaking like normal people.
3. Tried to restrict my answer.
4. Believed in myself!
5. Kept answering questions in my mind whenever I had nothing to do.
6. Gave mock interviews to friends on phone.
F1 Visa InterviewTips
Many people said ‘be confident’, but not many said how? Well, you can be confident only if you know s**t coming out. Don’t mind, but it’s true. We all go and talk s**t there, nothing we say is true. What matters is how well you know what you are talking. So list points for all possible questions. 3-5 points depending on question. If you know what you are talking, you would be confident, 95% if not 100%.

Have specific answer for why so and so university. But don't name any professor unless you have enough details about him/her. Just talk about your interest and courses. Ranking if its good.

When it comes to finances, always start with larger number. Example:
Dad’s income?-->Total family income is xyz out of which dad earns abc. If even total income is low, start with total assets worth pqr and total income xyz. Let them think you must have not understood the question properly, but you passed an important piece of information here, that you have good savings, or total income is more than sufficient. Why I’m suggesting this is that not everyone is asked further question, to explain savings or income and all. It might happen that they might simply reject you after listening to your father’s income which is low.

Any question regarding Savings?--> Total assets(movable + immovable) worth $xxx thousand. Say this in dollar. I bet your total would be more than above average American family’s assets. This is what happened in my case, that’s what got me visa. Continue…out of which movable is so and so. Stop here. Give specific details like balance in bank and all only if asked. In my case bank balance was few hundreds lesser than i20 amount. If asked I would have said: ma’am, in India gold and FDs have higher return values and my parents were thoughtful enough to invest all their savings in it which is worth $xxx. I hope you got my point here.


F1 Visa Interview experience of Natang Salgia in Mumbai US Consulate for USC. His F1 visa got rejcted first time and approved in second attempt.

F1 Visa Interview in Mumbai Consulate
VISA APPROVED | MUMBAI CONSULATE (both attempts) | 1st attempt:6th June | 2nd attempt:18th June | USC | MS CS

DISCLAIMER: ANSWERS GIVEN HERE, FOR FIRST INTERVIEW, MAY NOT BE EXACTLY HOW I HAD ANSWERED. BUT RESEMBLES WHAT I HAD ANSWERED! Its a long post (4 pages pf MS Word) It has transcripts of 2 interviews,probable reasons for reject, why i included certain points in my answers, changes done for second interview, tips, it is for worst case scenario. not everyone is lucky so not prepare for the best!
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/smile.pnghope it's useful. ignore typos, spelling and grammatical mistakes.

6th June:

Me: Good morning ma'am.

VO: Please pass me your passport.
(Passed passport with i20 in it)

VO: so tell me why US?

ME: ma'am, curriculum in US is practical oriented. Most of the patents in the field of engineering are filed in US, which shows the level of research that takes place there. While in Indian institutes there's not much research done. Also in worldwide rankings, Indian institutes are nowhere near American schools, so why settle for substandard school in India if I can get top university like USC.

VO: What was your GRE score?

ME:1350.(she was staring at me, seemed was expecting breakup, so told her 800 in Q and 550 in verbal. gave a strange look when i said 550 in verbal and repeated it, "ok, 550 in verbal")

VO: Why master in computer science?

ME: sorry ma'am, can you please repeat the question.
(she repeated the question)
ME: Ma'am I recently gave my computer engineering final exam and would like to continue in the same field. Apart from that I have a startup company here in which I have developed few applications, all related to the field of computer science, so I would like to gain in depth knowledge in this field so as to fulfill my dream of having my own company.(i think i went overboard here, shouldn't have given additional details)

VO: Tell me about your under graduate, what was your aggregate.

ME: I recently gave my final exam for Computer Engineering and my aggregate is 72.18%.

(She asked me something about GRE, i didn't get her so asked her to repeat. She didn't rep[eat question and asked for GRE score card, said I’ll see it by myself)

VO: Any backlogs?

ME: no.

VO: Parents annual income.

ME: Annual income is around XX lakh rupees.

VO: what do they do?

ME: (told)

VO: How much saving do they have in bank?

ME: $xx in bank, FD and cash (total more than i20 amount). And we also have other assets worth $xxx and properties worth $xxx.

VO: What assets exactly?

ME: Ma'am, nsc, kvp, shares, jewellery.

VO: But your i20 says $51k for one year so you will need $100k. This will wipe off all your savings.

ME: ma'am the savings is for one year, in fact more than what i will need for first year. But we have nsc, kvp, shares, jewellery worth $xxx which can be converted to liquid cash anytime we need. And we have properties which can again be liquidated. So ma'am, going to USC won’t affect my parents’ standard of living here.

VO: just give me your assets summary.
(Checks it properly. typed all details into her system)

VO: i think going here will wipe off all your savings (i tried telling her again that how it won't be a problem but she didn't let me speak) and then you might
not come back. So i cant issue your visa right now.
Reasons for Visa Rejection
Probable reasons for being rejected:
1. Though confident, not concise and precise.
2. Gave out unnecessary details.
3. Complicated my financial report by showing sub-totals of liquid, other investments and properties.
4. I talk very fast much have confused her further.
5. She was not in a mood because I know financially my parents can sponsor my education at USC without any additional burden, okay, without any significant additional burden.
Visa Interview experience in Mumbai Consulate - 2nd attempt
18th June (have mentioned reason(s) in parenthesis for why I purposely included certain points in my answers):

Me: Good morning ma’am!
VO: Hi, good morning!

VO: So tell me why USC?
ME: My interest lies in data mining and web/mobile application designing. USC has 5 dedicated laboratories for database and related field, and one dedicated lab for data mining and machine learning. Also, rank wise USC is the highest ranked university from all admits that I have received. (Though I have only 7/13 admits I mentioned this because all 7 admits are from: USC, NCSU, NEU, SUNY SB, NYU, UFL with scholarship and one worthless GMU. 6 universities from where I got rejects are ranked between 1 to 13. So I could have said though I didn’t stand chance, I wanted to try because MS is once in a lifetime opportunity)

VO: What after MS? (I went through many Vis and asked many people before finalizing on following answer, thanks to my couple of friends)
ME: I would like to be part of a research team in my field on interest as a research analyst. (At least at Mumbai Consulate don’t keep repeating ‘IN INDIA’, ‘BACK HERE IN INDIA’, and ‘WILL COME BACK TO INDIA’. Who on earth would believe that after spending $100,000k you plan to come back to India immediately! They will ask you where if they really need to know)

VO: Where? (As I said
 http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/wink.png)
ME: Ma’am, wherever my company asks me to. But I would PREFER INDIA. (Here I conveyed an important message: I haven’t pre-determined any country for my future job. It’s not me but my company that would take a call about it, but my preference is INDIA. If you say IN INDIA, they know/think you are being dishonest. You can’t even say US, so what to do? Well just let them know it’s not your choice! :P )

VO: Who is going to sponsor you? (I had prepared all questions related to finance quite well because that was the APPARENT reason why my visa of denied previously)
ME: my parents.

VO: What do they do?
ME: My dad by profession is a ZZZ and has his own firm HERE IN INDIA named YYY (interrupts, I think after saying firm in India she must be sure he’s not going to shift to USA)

VO: You need a $100k for your course, how are they going to sponsor? (Most awaited question, highly unexpected reaction)
ME: ma’am, my parents have total assets worth $xxx (I purposely started with grand total) out of which movable is (interrupts)

VO: How much did you say? 0_o
ME: ma’am, $xxx.

VO: Did you just say $xxx? 0_o
ME: yes ma’am, $xxx worth of total assets.

VO: Are you sure?
ME: Yes ma’am, would you like to see the summary?

VO: oh yes, I would like see your summary.
(Passed summary report that I had prepared for her quick review and didn’t get it attested or whatever the term is by a C.A. All assets in rupees and dollars @ 56)
VO: who has made this? The bank?
ME: no ma’am I have made this but i have all supporting documents.(immediately passed all originals. Saw the number of documents and returned it)

VO: oh, it’s ok. (Kept passport aside, I knew I was done here and was all set to run outside :P)

VO: your test score?
ME: 1350 in GRE…800 in quant and 550 in verbal (if you have scored good why not give detailed info :P). TOEFL 106.

VO: out of?
ME: (seriously? After approving VISA!) 120 ma’am. Would you like to see the score card?

VO: No.
You visa has been approved. Enjoy your stay at US.
ME: Thank you ma’am. Thanks a lot (in my mind: I deserved it you ……)
Changes Done for 2nd Visa Attempt
1. No sub totals in summary report.
2. Tried speaking like normal people.
3. Tried to restrict my answer.
4. Believed in myself!
5. Kept answering questions in my mind whenever I had nothing to do.
6. Gave mock interviews to friends on phone.
F1 Visa InterviewTips
Many people said ‘be confident’, but not many said how? Well, you can be confident only if you know s**t coming out. Don’t mind, but it’s true. We all go and talk s**t there, nothing we say is true. What matters is how well you know what you are talking. So list points for all possible questions. 3-5 points depending on question. If you know what you are talking, you would be confident, 95% if not 100%.

Have specific answer for why so and so university. But don't name any professor unless you have enough details about him/her. Just talk about your interest and courses. Ranking if its good.

When it comes to finances, always start with larger number. Example:
Dad’s income?-->Total family income is xyz out of which dad earns abc. If even total income is low, start with total assets worth pqr and total income xyz. Let them think you must have not understood the question properly, but you passed an important piece of information here, that you have good savings, or total income is more than sufficient. Why I’m suggesting this is that not everyone is asked further question, to explain savings or income and all. It might happen that they might simply reject you after listening to your father’s income which is low.

Any question regarding Savings?--> Total assets(movable + immovable) worth $xxx thousand. Say this in dollar. I bet your total would be more than above average American family’s assets. This is what happened in my case, that’s what got me visa. Continue…out of which movable is so and so. Stop here. Give specific details like balance in bank and all only if asked. In my case bank balance was few hundreds lesser than i20 amount. If asked I would have said: ma’am, in India gold and FDs have higher return values and my parents were thoughtful enough to invest all their savings in it which is worth $xxx. I hope you got my point here.

F1 visa Interview in Mumbai consulate tips and advises. F1 Visa for U of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Michigan Tech.Experience of two students. 

US Visa Interview in Mumbai - F1 Visa (UIU, Champaign)

consulate: Mumbai 
Date: June 1st, 2012 (7:45 am slot)
University: U of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Program: MS Structural
Status: Approved

Prior to F1 Visa Interview:

After having planned for this day over a thousand times in my head, when it finally comes to the judgement day, you never know what's in store for you on that particular day. I had been very thorough as far as my preparation was concerned- all documents nicely sorted and arranged, over a 100 VI questions prepared; in fact, i had a supporting document for each question that I thought the VO might ask. Arriving at the consulate at 6:30am in my best presentable formal outfit, I realized that I might have been a bit late. (there were already like a thousand people present) Going through the entire routine, and after waiting for almost an hour and half, I found myself in the waiting hall right in front of Counter 37. Now, I had heard about the history of serial rejections rendered by this counter, but, I tried not to get intimidated.'Bring it on' i said ! After just 15 minutes and four rejections, I was terrified as if I had witnessed an accident, or something, and I took my words back..:P My token number flashed on the screen and I queued myself in front of counter 34. The VO was this white american (racism not intended) in his late thirties and he had this scarecrow-like-frown on his face (pun intended)

VI (lasted for a minute and a half):
Me: Good Morning Sir (with a huge smile on my face.....the guy didnt even look at me)
VO: Pass the documents, please.
(passed I20 and Passport)
VO: Which school are u heading for?
Me: Univ. of Illinois Urbana- Champaign
Vo: How did u pick this school? (dont know why he kept referring to school...kinda bugged me)
Me: It is the best public research-oriented university of the country. It offers a very wide intensive Masters program. Besides, it has this ongoing research on the topic 'Smart Materials' which interests me since I have done some work on this similar topic... (was about to show the paper that I presented on smart materials application...but looks like, he had already bought my answer)
VO: what all schools did u apply to?
Me: NCSU, UFL, UWS, UWM, Purdue, Virginia Tech (dont use the abbreviations....it may piss the VO off..... I also mentioned all my admits and rejects)
VO: (staring into my I-20 in a confused manner) Who all are your sponsors?
Me: My primary sponsors are my parents, besides them my mother's real brother and my mother's real sister have also agreed upon assisting me financially.... (truth is....both my mama and maasi are US-residents and all four of these names were present on my I-20 document.... I very well predicted this happening)
VO: So are you gonna pay them back?
ME
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/frown.png I understood the question, but I didnt see this coming....... I thought between me and my relatives is a family matter... I never thought this question would be asked even in wildest of all my dreams....but, just to fetch some time to think about the answer, I said) Pardon me, I couldnt hear you...
Vo: repeats the question...
Me: Yes, ofcourse I am gonna pay them back (I should have said 'No', reason....Next question)
VO: How are you gonna pay them back?
Me: (Paused for a second) Actually, this is just like a stand-by option. My parents have enough funds for entire duration of my course. I wont be using my sponsors' money at the initial stage. However, in case of an emergency, I might ask them...(fumbled a bit here...) Do you want to see my financial docs summary..?
VO: Nah... Not needed...(satisfied with my previous answer) How was ur GRE?
Me: ( was about to say.... it was good... but realized that he is asking for the score) 315 on 340
VO: any backlogs....
Me: No
VO
: alright, well, ur visa is approved and ur passport will be couriered to you in next few days.... Blah blah.... (didnt hear the rest, collected the I-20 that he passed, kept all the documents in my folder.....tried to curtail my excitement)
Me: Thank You very much!

Pieces of advice for F1 visa:

1) In case u r going for ur VI in Mumbai consulate, and when u r standing in queue outside the consulate building, be careful with your documents. I saw some people barely managing to save their documents from going into the very well planned drainage system of BKC.....(not kidding)
2) If you have a similar case like mine....ur sponsors being ur relatives..etc.... Dont mention initially whether or not they are citizens of US. If you notice in my VI, I didnt mention it anywhere....and seems like, the VO also didnt realize it.
3) Presentation matters.... trust me. Be well organized with all ur docs....In case, they ask, you dont want to be in a messy situation trying to look out for it in front of ur VO. Know where all ur docs are kept.

All the Best guys!!

F1 Visa Interview in Mumbai for Michigan Tech

To be Honest I never ever expected the interview like this.
My interview was scheduled at 0745 Mumbai Consulate and I was expecting a long queue as everybody mentioned in their experiences.I'll skip the fingerprint and token part... Here comes the main part. The VO was an African American lady in her late 20's. She was calm and I was feeling good seeing her. She reminded me of my Mom 
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/biggrin.png
Me:Good Morning Ma'am (with a smile and passed the passport and I-20)
VO:Good Morning
She saw the I-20 and said Michigan Tech hummm... 
I didn't really listen it...
Me: Sorry Ma'am
VO: Which university?
Me: Michigan Technological University Ma'am!!!
VO: Why Michigan Tech??
ME: Told her about the curriculum and CCSR the research center and facilities. 
VO: What course?
ME: MS in Computer Engineering
VO: Where are you from?
ME: India 
I don't exactly know why she asked this though I was speaking the american accent may be that's why??
VO: Who's going to fund your education?
ME: My parents are going to take care of expenses in US.
She asked me something I wasn't able to listen to it cuz when she typed something she moved from the mic. I don't no what happened and I said No Ma'am!!! and she moved on...
VO: What universities did you apply?
ME: Named them along with the acceptances.
VO: What after master's? (Couldn't listen to it so I asked her to repeat)
ME: I plan do the business back in India when finished with Master's
She looked into the screen for 5-6 seconds and said I AM APPROVING YOUR VISA.

F1 visa tips:

Don't be afraid of VOs they are there to give us the VISA. I would suggest you to talk with someone while waiting for your token number this will divert your mind form the fear of rejection and you'll feel good. I did that I talked with a guy from Pune he was a J-1 candidate. Find out interesting thing about your Universities and tell VO why you chose it. There is no harm in preparing for your interview questions but when you answer them to VO sound it like a conversation, it should not sound like you have mugged'em up.During interviews if you're not able to listen just kindly tell them to repeat that's just fine. I asked my VO to repeat almost every question in the end, but she seemed fine with it cuz she was not speaking properly into the mic. And Hope for the luck on you DAY...
I hope this will help guys who have their interviews ahead.
Good Luck Fellas.

US Visa Interview complete process at Mumbai Consulate and Sample US Visa Interviews in Mumbai Consulate.

US Visa Experience in MUMBAI BKC Consulate

Date: 17 May, 2012
Venue: American Consulate, BKC, Mumbai
Time: 7:45 a.m.

Before Reaching US Consulate Mumbai:

Left home at 7 am and reached BKC around 7:30 am. It turned out that there was already a long queue outside the consulate.

But don't be alarmed, because not all of them will be 7:45ers. So,

Tip 1: Try to reach at least half an hour before the appointment time, because your position in the queue will dictate how long you need to twiddle your thumbs in the waiting hall.

Tip 2: When you reach, ask for the 7:45 queue. The guards usually split up the queue based on time priority, so make sure you aren't in the 9 am queue.

Tip 3: No mobiles or electronic items are allowed. Please DON'T take them in, the guards will make you keep them out and then rejoin the queue. Leave them at home or with an accompanying relative. Wallets and belts are cool.

Stage 1: Outside the Consulate

So, back to the queue. While I stood there for a good half an hour, I was asked to take out my visa appointment letter, I-20 and passport. I had to fold the I-20 in half and keep both it and the visa app. letter in the passport. I held the passport all along the snaky queue till I entered the first building.

Stage 2: Inside - The Token Counter

I went in, had myself and my belongings scanned, and went up to the token counter. The guy took my appointment letter and passport, scanned the passport and stuck a label with my number on it. Turned out it was 489 (the number running was 280-ish). Hence, TIP 1.

We were then escorted to an open area outdoors before being allowed into the second building.

Stage 3: Inside - Fingerprints and Coffee

Entered the second building, noticing the CCD on the left (you can't miss it). Went right to the last counter in the nonimmigrant area, and joined the line for fingerprints. Stood for around 5 minutes till my turn came, gave the prints, and took my seat in the waiting area, just in front of the counters. I had to wait for around an hour and a half. Drank some coffee while I waited. My turn finally came at 9:45ish.

Stage 4: In front of Visa Officer

Counter No. 30. The VO was a young guy in his late twenties.

VO: Number 489. Good Morning!

I: Good Morning sir!

(Handed over my I-20 and passport)

VO (typing all the while): So, where will you be going?

I: I'll be going to Carnegie Mellon sir, in Pennsylvania.

(VO nodded all-knowingly)

VO: Is it a Bachelor's or a Master's degree?

I: Master's degree.

VO: What field?

I: Told.

VO: What was your UG aggregate?

I: Told.

VO: Any backlogs?

I: No sir.

VO: Can I see your GRE and TOEFL scores?

I: Sure, sir.

(Showed him the marksheets. A lenient expression appeared on his face.)

VO: How are you planning to pay for this degree?

I: Parents will be sponsoring my education sir, and I am currently employed as well.

VO: What does your father do?

I: Told.

VO (distracted, still typing furiously): Is his company ONGC?

I: No sir, they build rigs for ONGC.

VO: Which universities did you apply to?

(VO handed over my I-20 before I could reply and kept typing. Didn't seem to care that I hadn't answered.)

VO (after what seemed like an eternity): Your visa is approved. You'll get your passport within a week.

I: Thanks! Have a nice day!

VO: You too!

Took my stuff and walked out. 'In Dino' from Life in a Metro kept playing in my head for some reason. The time was 10:00 a.m.

TIP 4: Look the guy in the eye all the while (even if he keeps on typing and doesn't look at you!), and answer confidently. Neither a robot nor a stammerer be. There are very few chances he'll ask for docs if you answer coolly and confidently.

Now for the best part, though it's unrelated!

Went back to work a couple of days after the VI. Hadn't informed my boss that I'd be extending my leave, and didn't pick up any of his calls. So true to nature, he gave me a load of BS the day I rejoined, and I heard him out, smiling inwardly all the while. At an opportune moment, I took out my pre-typed letter and slammed it on his table. Guy nearly had a heart attack. Anyway, I got him some water and made sure he was okay, just so he'd be able to sign my letter!

Best of luck for your VIs! Hope this helps!


One of MSinUS groups members posted F1 visa Experience. It is just one minute. Usually morning slot students will get short duration visa interview. And this kind of short visa interviews are very common in all US Consulates.

F1 Visa Interview Experience - Shortest Visa Interview - 60 Seconds

Very short one just 1 minute.
At 8:15 am Mumbai US Consulate.

ME: Gd mng how r u mam
VI: ya fine, How many univ did u apply
ME:4
VI:what r they
ME:told...
VI:Give ur GRE and TOEFL
ME: Sorry mam I took IELTS
VI:no problem pass them.
ME:Gave the docs
VI: what's ur final year %
ME:70
VI: which year passed out
ME:2011
VI:how many Backlogs do u have?
ME: NO back logs madam
VI: what's ur father and mother
ME: Told
VI: Ur visa is approved u will receive it in a week.

I am flying on July 24th.

Hi,

Following is my F1 Visa Interview that took place on 20th Dec. at Mumbai Consulate.

My interview was scheduled at 7:45. I reached there by 7 and I assumed I was early but after reaching there, I saw 50-60 people already lined up for their 7:45 am Visa slot. I readied all the documents as the VFS people outside the consulate told us to do.

I entered the consulate at 7:40 and after all the security checks, I sat in the interview hall waiting for my number to be displayed on the info. screen. From 8:00 to 8:25, I was watching interviews of other people. Some were faltering, some were going great and this made me really nervous. Finally, my number came at 8:25. Incidentally, my number came at the same window I was sitting opposite to. I walked up to the window and waited for my turn. One guy was being interviewed. I couldn't hear him properly but was shocked when he had passport in his hand as he finished his interview. The I got the chance to eavesdrop on the interview of the guy who was standing ahead of me. Here is the brief transcript of his interview

VO: Morning
him: Good morning maam.
.
.
.
. CE degree, pursuing MS in CS. GRE : 1090 and working in TCS and some other answers which I don't remember now
.
.
.

Final Question VO: What do you intend to do after MS?
Him: Maam, I am planning to come to India after my MS. The job opportunities are far better here than in US. The competition, challenge, the exposure and the value of MS degree
She kept typing something and after 10 seconds
VO: I am sorry. You are not eligible for the Visa at this point.

Now it was my turn and I was shaking in my boots because of the two rejections I just witnessed. I was beginning to think, "Is there a counter where I can get my VO changed?

(The following transcript is almost 99.9% accurate)

I walked up to the window and before I could say anything,
VO: Good morning. How are you today?
Me: I am f.... (I got stuck here and could not finish the rest of the sentence. Just kept nodding. As I was watching the VO's befuddled expressions, I decided it was better to lay out my cards right now.)

Me: Maam, before starting the interview, I would like to tell you that I have a slight stuttering problem. So if I hesitate or ..... you know, its because of my problem.
 
(Suddenly out of the blue, she gave me a humongous and very very big smile and I could see the heaven doors opening, popping my passport in, stamping the Visa and giving me back. I was almost 70% sure at that moment that I will get the visa. I just shouldn't screw up anything very badly.)

VO: Oh.. It's fine. There's no need to worry.
She kept typing for almost 10-20 seconds.
VO: So which university you are going to?
Me: Colorado State ....(stuck AGAIN. The name of the university was clearly printed on that but for some a****** of a reason, it wouldn't come out of my mouth. So I just kept checking my I20. I had my eyes on my I20 for like 10 seconds unable to say the Uni name.)

VO: It's fine. Could you give me your I20? (I had all smiles when she asked me that)
VO: Can I have your passport? (I just kept smiling and trying not to break the eye contact)
VO: Why this University?
Me: Maam, this university has a very good research infrastructure and a good faculty for courses like Databases, Networking, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, XML and its query processing languages like XPath,Xquery. Also, its one of the uni. that matches my profile and the primary reason is that it has a very good program for RA and TA. (I said all this with a little stuttering)
VO: But I see that you have no funding from the university.
Me: Yes Maam. Actually, I started my application process a little late and by then all the deadlines for the scholarships were gone. So I am very much hoping for funding from second semester onwards.
VO: Who is sponsoring you?
Me: My father, maam.
VO: Whats his salary?
Me: Told her the figure.
Then she typed for another 35-50 seconds.
VO: Why this course?
Me: As you must be aware Maam, Computer Science is one of the biggest boom at the moment. I have already done Comp. Engg. during my Bachelors from University of Mumbai and want to broaden my horizon in the field of Databases, Parallel Programming, XML and the same courses I mentioned earlier.
She again started typing for another ten seconds.
VO: Whats your GRE score?
Me: My GRE score is 1030 and TOEFL score is 112.
VO: What did you do after your graduation?
Me: I pursued my PG from University of Edinburgh, Scotland in Computer Systems and Software Engineering. After that I came back to India, worked with Maxwell Systems for 6 months as System Developer. In the meantime, I also wrote a fiction novel "Dreams Come Ture".
 
VO: Oh... really. (She said with a wide grin)
Me: Yes Maam. Its just got published a couple of weeks ago and is for sale on Flipkart and Amazon. Countrywide distribution will take around 2-3 months.
Then she typed for almost a full minute and I had no idea what she was doing. My best guess was she was checking the validity of my statement on Amazon or on Flipkart. I still kept looking at her but she was looking at the PC. Then came the words I was dying to hear all morning.
VO. Congratulations. Your Visa has been approved. Your passport will be couriered to you in 2-3 days.
Me: Thank You Maam. Thank You very much.

I just couldn't stop smiling the entire way out of the consulate. The day just seemed more humorous and nice then it was ten minutes ago and I couldn't wipe the smile off my face all morning. I know the entire description is a little big but "I couldnt help it"

Tip: Try not to lie unless you are very good at it. No matter how you speak, try to maintain a healthy eye contact throughout the interview and just plaster a smile on your face no matter how nervous you are.


-----------------Hope this helps for your Fall 2012 F1 Visa interview .

F1 Visa Rejected for Sanjose State University in New Delhi Consulate. My Visa Experience goes here. - Punit Sharma
Consulate : Delhi
Slot : 8 AM
Counter : 15
Date : 11th June
Profile : GRE/TOEFL 300/94, UG 60%, 2.5 Yrs Work Ex @ TCS

VO was serious guy on wrong side of 40's or early 50's. Rejected 2 before me.

Here it goes :

Me : Morning Sir
VO : Good Morning

VO : Pass your docs
Me : I did

VO : Why U want to go to US
Me : To persue Master of Sci in Soft. Engg.

VO : Which uni
Me : San jose state uni

VO : Which uni u applied to?
Me : (All full forms) SJSU, SDSU, UTA, SMU, SUNY- Binhampton, Stevens Inst. of Tech., UNCC, CSU-LB
(Dint paused but i think i was looking like m trying to recall. Also skipped UTD coz i cudn't recall)

VO : From Which uni you got admit?
Me : (All full forms) SJSU, SDSU, UTA, SMU, Stevens Inst of Tech, CSU-LB

VO : Why you have choosen SJSU?
Me : Sir, Uni is offerring Cloud computing as specialization which is my area of interest and also
 
it a relatively new technology here in India and it a booming technology. So i ll be having lots of
of oppotunities here post MS.

VO : What you did in Bachelors?
Me : Did B.Tech in Comp Sci & Engg

Vo : When did you passed out?
Me : 2010

Vo : What have you been doing since?
Me : M working with TCS since then

VO : How you are funding your education?
Me : (My knock out answer i guess) M having an approved loan of 25L and amount of 17L in form
of FD's, GPF, savings balance and National savings certificates of my parents.(Not sure
 
what I said exactly but I mentioned loan in the beginning. Also i think i dint clearly explain
the break up of those 17L)

VO : What your parents do?
Me : Both are in govt. services.(also told their designations and dept)

VO : Do you have any brother or sister?
Me : YOunger brother

VO : What he is doing?
Me : Told

VO : Where is he?
Me : In India only

VO typed something

VO : I dont consider you to be qualified to go to US.

I just went away without having another look at him. Dont know what I was thinking.

My Visa interview Experience at New Delhi consulate. - Ishita Jain. Profile: GRE 315 TOEFL 114 Acadaics 72% Major MS Microbiology

Visa Interview for Rutgers University
Why Rutgers?
People working in my area of interest, i.e microbio. Best among my admits.
Where all did you apply?
I got admits from SUNY Buffalo, UT Arlington. I'm awaiting UFl and Cincinnati. But I've set my heart on Rutgers so I'm not waiting.
What specific interest in microbes?
No destructive use, I want to clean up pollutants using native microbes. Something I've already been working on.
What after MS?
I want to come back and start cleaning up m country first, I wasnt to join a company doing such work here, like Novozyme and biocon in Bangalore. (which I'm not sure they're doing)
When did you graduate?
Just graduated.
Don't you want to work?
No I want to complete my education first.
Rutgers is pretty expensive how do you plan to play for it?
My father's family business on paper cutting and packaging and he owns a restaurant. So it will be managed for sure.
Are you the only child. No, what does he do?
Younger brother, just passed out of 12th, will do college in India.

Ok I'm approving your Visa.

Don't be scared if you fumble, I did a LOT. Cover up if you realize you're saying something ambiguous. don't give any details, VO will derive questions from that. TAL is avoidable if you give her enough reason that your area of interest is beneficial and not doubtful. Speak in complete lay man general language, speak confidently moving your hands or whatever. Don'd do anything extra, additionally, be very natural and normal. Don't carry anything extra, it gets irritating to handle, don't reach too early.


hi! my name is achint and on 13th june, 2013 i had my visa interview. i applied for master of science in mechanical and aerospace engineering and couldnt get through but instead they offered me a place in the professional masters in mechanical and aerospace engineering. I had enough funds to cover more than 2 years in the US. documentation was also done properly. my GRE was 295/340 and toefl is 101/120

My visa interview went is as follows:

Me: good morning
VO: good morning, pass me your documents...
Me: gave the docs
VO: which city are you travelling to?
me: chicago
vo: what course?
me: masters
vo: in?
me: mechanical engineering (as mentioned on my I-20, i didnt say mechanical and aerospace engineering as its always safe to say whatever is written on the I-20)
vo: which uni?
me: Illinois Institute of Technology
vo: y this uni?
me: the course there aligns with my interests
vo: which other places did you apply to?
me: i applied to 6 places.. (told names of 3-4)
vo: where were you accepted?
me: FIT and IIT
vo: there are so many schools in the US..
me: the professors are doing amazing research which im interested in... there is this professor named deitmar rempfer and he is doing a project in which the fluid dynamics of the human system is studied
vo: which year did you graduate?
me: this year 2013
vo: im sorry I cannot issue you a student visa at this time
me: i left 
http://www.msinus.com/images/smilies/frown.png

he gave me a sheet which had nothing tick marked as a reason... i think it was section 214 (b) but i really dont know the reason for the denial

My Visa Interview experience: Visa Approved
Consulate : Chennai
Date : 20-Apr-2015
Time : 10AM
Univ : VIU

My profile
UG: BE/CSE
% : 76
Backlog: 0
Passed out year: 2012
Work experience: 2 years in HCL technologies
IELTS: 6.5
No GRE

My Visa Interview Experience for Fall 2015
VO: Gud morning
Me: Gud morning, how are you?
No reply from VO, I had my I20, acceptance letter and passport handy and passed it to VO.
VO: So you are going to VIU?
Me: yes sir
VO: why VIU?
Me: I contacted many students currently studying in VIU, some passed out students and professors. I got positive reviews from everyone about VIU. It has students from more than 60 countries which wil help me to gain international exposure. It is located very close to one of most powerful city in the world Washington DC, so being a computer science student I will get a chance to stay on top of current technologies and inventions.
VO: How long are you working in HCL? (I mentioned this while filling out my DS160)
Me: I am working for the past two years in HCL
VO: what kind of job it is?
Me: Explained about my nature of work
VO: I could see that u hav been to Thailand twice, can u tell me the purpose of visit?
Me: I have been to Thailand, Srilanka and Dubai with tourist visa.
VO: Do you have any siblings?
Me: I have two elder sisters, one sister resides in Srilanka and other sister in USA
VO: what kind of visa your sister in US holds?
Me: she holds L2 visa and my brother in law holds L1 visa both are working for the same company
VO: since how long they are in US?
Me: They are in US for the past 6 months
VO: Did u apply to any other university?
Me: I applied to Devry university and got admission for devry as well
VO: why did you choose VIU and not Devry?
Me: I spoke with both the university students and VIU was comparatively good in education standard.
VO: who is sponsoring you?
Me: My parents
VO: what do they do?
Me: we run jewellery business and we do get income from agriculture as well
VO: your visa is approved, Plz take your I20 and acceptance letter. You can collect your passport after a day or two.
Me: thank you so much smile emoticon

Some hints and suggestion for visa interview:

1. Filling DS160 with true info is very important, don't hide if u have your siblings in US.
2. To be on the safer side, have all your supporting documents handy, but 99% it won't be asked as everyday more than 1000 applicants will hav their visa interview scheduled so VO hardly spends 5 mins on each applicant and there won't be enough time to check all your documents.
3. Instead of having fake documents try your best to have all original and genuine documents. Even if u have fake documents and if suppose it is asked be confident to explain that its genuine.

Me: Very good morning Sir , How are you ?
Vo : Good morning , fine , thank you , how are you ? ( With strange face )
 
VO : Passport please .
Me : Here sir ..(Gave my passport)
Vo: Afzzal Why did you chose to go for Spring instead of fall ??
Me : ( i was very much suprised with the ques ) ..Sir , i was doing my courses that time ..so....( VO interrupted )
Vo: Even everyone are busy ..what special for you ?
Me: I was doing courses apart from my academics..but related to my field sir ...
Vo: What course ?
Me: Designing courses sir ..
Vo; ( Thinking and blinking )
 
Me; (I confirmed that i will get denied surely )
Vo; What's your GPA afzzal ?
Me; 6.39 sir
( Vo was typing for about 15 secs ) i thought he is typing his 214b form
 
Vo; Your visa has been approved
 
Me;( what??????? ) Thanks a lot Sir , you made my day.

-- Afzzal Afzi


F1 visa experience Chennai Consulate.
Date : 21/04/14
Status : Rejected
 
Attempt: 3rd time

Profile:
B.tech -2011 pass out - 6backlogs.
Have related Experience.
Gre: 286
Ielts: 6.5
Me: Very good morning Sir...
VO: hey Good Morning man..
VO: pass me your passport please.
Me : passed my passport ..
VO: so why are you going to USA?
ME: for my masters degree sir..
VO: okay.so you completed under graduation in which stream?
ME: Information technology sir.
VO: then whats your favorite subject.?? ( i knew i was dumped by this time)
ME: i said C language.
VO : can you please differentiate me between c and c++
ME: i started to explain the differences between them...
VO: He stopped me and said wait for some time i will be back.
Me: okay sir..
He went to talk with a person and the person was the same who rejected me last time in Chennai.... He came back to me after 2 minutes.
VO: have you ever been to USA?
ME: No Sir
VO: how many times you were rejected USA Visa?
ME: 2 times sir ..this is my third attempt.
VO: so where is this university located?
Me: Hooksett, New Hampshire .
VO: okay.
VO: sorry sir unfortunately i cant issue your visa now, better luck next time.
( he then handed over the passport and 214b form)
ME: Thank you sir.
-------------------------------------------

Interview on August 6, 2018

VO: Hi good morning! Pass me your passport please. Where are you going?

Me: Hi! Cornell, NY.

VO: What are you studying?

Me: Systems engineering.


VO: Okay your Visa is approved!

-------------------------------------------

 The interview went something like this:

Officer: Hello

Me: Hello sir

Officer: Tell me about yourself son.

Me: I am Pranjal Ghosh. I am a student currently pursuing my B-tech degree in Mechanical Engineering from (name of University).

Officer: Have you been to US before.

Me: No sir, this is my first time.

Officer: What is the purpose of your visit?

Me: I am representing my college in an aerodesign competition in (address of competition).

(Explains him a bit about the competition)

Officer: Great….Can you tell me who is organising the competition?

Me: Sure…. SAE is organising the competition.

Officer: (Carries on a small research on SAE on the internet).

Can you show me your invitation letter?

Me: Here you go sir.

(shows him the invitation letter).

(He shows it to his colleague and then returns it back after discussing something about it.)

Officer: How long are you intending to stay there?

Me: Almost a month from X date to Y date.

Officer: What are the places you are visiting?

Me: (tells him the names of the places along with the hotel address).

Officer : Are you traveling alone ?

Me: No sir, I am travelling with my teammates.

Officer: How many members are there in your team?

Me: 19 sir.

(Points and shows him my teammates who were standing in the line behind me)

Officer: May I know who is sponsoring your travel expenses ?

Me: My father.

Officer: What does your father do ?

Me: He is a Mechanical Engineer in (name of company)

(Again does a small research about the company on the internet)

Officer: Can you tell me his salary?

Me: Sorry sir but he never told me his salary.

(We both share a smile )

Officer: Nevermind son. Your Visa is approved and best of luck for the competition.

Me: Thank You sir….have a good day.


That's it….no drama….nothing. Except for the invitation letter, he didn't ask me for any other documents.

------------------------

Date: 18 July, 2019

Chennai consulate

Rutgers State University, NJ, USA

Me: Good morning maam. How you doing?

VO: Good morning. I m fine . Wbu?

Me: I am doing great

Passed passport, sevis and I20

VO: So Rutgers!!

Me: Yes maam

VO: Which stream?

Me: Information technology and analytics

VO: Why that course?

Me: It's good mixture of business and technology and that's what I am looking for in my masters.

VO: Is it about big data and data analysis?

Me: Yes maam.

VO: Where you will see yourself after 5years?

Me: I would love to see myself as a data scientist in companies like Google or IBM.

VO: Ohh you like big data analytics ?

Me: Yes maam. I did my undergraduate project and mini research on the same topic. So i want to make my career out of it.

VO: Who is sponsoring for your education?

Me: I have a loan of xx amounts and also my father will be sponsoring me.

VO: What does your father do?

Me: He is a civil engineer maam

VO: What's his income?

Me: told

VO: Your visa is approved. Have a great stay at US


Me: Thank you maam. Made my day.

-------------------------

Me: Hi Good morning! How are you?

CO: Good morning! Can I have your passport?

Me: Sure. (Handed over the passport)

CO: Where are you planning to go to in the US?

Me: Chicago

CO: Who are you visiting?

Me: A friend of mine. (Didn’t say his name)

CO: what does he do?

Me: He works as a Internal Medicine Resident at a XXX Hospital in Chicago.

CO: Do you live in Barbados?

Me: Yes. I live and work here

CO: Have you travelled to any other countries for Tourism?

Me: Yes. I have been to U.K., Trinidad, Curacao, Guyana.

CO: Okay! What is your position and where do u work?

Me: I work as a Lecturer in XXXX University

CO: You seem pretty young !

Me: I get that a lot. I teach in premedical Sciences.

CO: Nice. How long have you been working with the XXX University?

Me: 8 months

CO: How long have you been living in Barbados?

Me: More than 2 years

CO: Where did you work before?

Me: I used to work as a lecturer in a university on the island and shifted my job due to universities financial troubles

CO: Oh. What did you do in India?

Me: I used to work in a Tablet Learning Company as a Business Development Associate

CO: Okay! Thank you. I will be keeping the passport. Please collect it at DHL. ( Hands over a slip which states visa is approved)

Me: Thank you! Have a great day.


CO: You too 😊
----------------------------------------

Counter Person: How old are you?

Me (very surprised): 2x.

CP: Are you sure?

Me (puzzled): yes!

CP: When were you born?

Me: 198x

CP: Are you sure?

Me (annoyed): Yes!

CP: Then why did you put 1998 in the application?

Me: huh?

CP: Your application says 1998.

Me (panicking and looking at my printed form): No, it doesn’t!

He shows me the screen - and there it was! Instead of 198x I had typed 9 twice and never realized my mistake.

Me (stare at him): What do I do? It was a mistake sorry.

CP (smiles and laughs at my panicked faced): Give me your docs, I will change it. It will take awhile. Don’t worry, go sit down.

I take a sigh of relief and thanking God for the man’s kindness. Probably took another 20min for me to get called up again. This time to the visa officer.

VO: Good morning

Me: Good morning

VO: Where are you going?

Me: xxx

VO: What are you going to study?

Me: PhD in xxx Engineering

VO: What will you do after?

Me: Come back and teach at University X

VO: When do you leave?

Me: Aug xx

VO: Good luck. You can collect your passport tomorrow.

Me (Surprised): Thanks, does it mean I get visa?

VO: Yes. Good bye!

I had my I-20 with the school paying full tuition and stipend. So I guess he didn’t ask about that. I have had to go back 3 times after that for US visa.

2nd time: very easy, no issues. Just commented on the fact I changed schools.

3rd time: in Europe. no issues, but no seats to sit and wait and no privacy during the interview process. Everyone could hear a Europe national being questioned a lot just because he was a doctor and had been to Iran for a medical missions trip.

4th time: no issues - VO very interested in the work I did.


Anonymous since I would like to renew my visa again. lol
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It went thus: (CO means Consular Officer)
C.O : smiling ! Good morning
Me:Good morning ma
C.O: Can I have your passports ?
Me : I gave him our passports
C.O: Are you guys together ?
Me: Yes we are
C.O: Why do you want to go America ?
Me: For Vacation .
C.O: Are you couple /married ?
Me: Yes we are ,for 4 years sir.
C.O: Do you have kids ?
Me: No but we are hoping on God.
C.O: What do you guys do?
Me: We are travel and tourism consultants and own our company .(company Name mentioned )
C.O: Why did it take you long to travel together as a couple while you have been traveling since 3 years ago?
Me: Because both can not leave the business at the same time .
C.O: Now that you are traveling together,what will happen to the business ?(frawn)
Mè: We now have 6 capable staff with manager who can look after the bsiness and moreover ,we can monitor online and also traveling during December Xmas period
C.O: His your wife expecting?(pregnant)
Me: No ,but we are hoping to God for it.
C.O: Where will you stay in the US?
ME: Hotel (name mentioned)
C.O: Have you been there before ?
Me: No sir ,until you give us visa(smiles )
C.O: smiles! How long do you intend staying ?
Me: 6 day only
C.O: what's your monthly income and who is paying for the trip ?
Me: We are both on monthly allowance of N150k and N180k respectively(Nigeria Naira) and this is for us to be accountable to our business as being the owner doesn't mean that We should spend the money anyhow!
C.O : Nice of you. Via granted and come for it in 3 days . Congrats.
Me: Thank you sir. Happy us.
Thanks

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Mumbai Consulate

Bandra Kurla Complex

Counter No: 28

Slot: 11 AM

Date: 2nd, August 2019

VO: Good morning Sir.

Me: Good morning Mam!.

VO: Pass me your I20 and passport, please.

Me: Sure. Mam.

VO: What are you going to do at XXX University?

Me: I will pursue my masters in Computer Science.

She got surprised and said "Okay".

VO: Why Computer Science?

Me: I have been working with Amazon as a Data Analyst from the past three years. During this time, I got the opportunity to explore different in-house technologies related to databases which I believe have the potential to become key players in the emerging job market.

VO: Can I see your SEVIS receipt?

Me: Yes Mam. Here it is.

(She was typing something, without giving her a chance to say anything I continued)

I would like to enhance my skillset in the relevant domain and make myself more marketable with this degree.

VO: How are you going to fund your education?

Me: I have a savings of XXX lacs and my parents would be sponsoring me for additional funds if needed. Both of them are entrepreneurs with an annual income of xxx lacs each. (VO interrupted me at this instance)

VO: Sorry! How much is their annual income.. each?

Me: xxx lacs per annum Mam.

(She was typing something and I got tensed at this point)

Me: Sorry Mam, I didn't mention. The University has awarded me a scholarship of $10000 USD per year on a conditional basis. This has been granted considering my past academic achievements and my potential for success at the University.

VO: Okay...

Me: I was looking at her and observing what she's gonna do next.

VO: Why masters now? Don't you think it's too late?

Me: Sorry Mam.. I didn't hear you. Can you say it again?

VO: Why masters now?

Me: Mam.. I was working in the same role from the past three years. The work I am doing currently has limited exposure to technologies (Fumbled... and continued) technologies I would like to gain a solid knowledge base in. I think this is the right time for me to enhance my skill set in the relevant domain to attain a productive career. Right now, I am working as a data analyst. Post this degree, I can work as a data engineer which is far more superior than the work I am currently doing at Amazon.

VO: Great! Thank you. I'm approving your VISA. Further instructions are provided in this slip here.

Me: Thank you Mam... :)

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Have given three interviews till date, two in home country (India) and one in Canada, for the most in news H1B visa and here are my experiences:

1st Interview (New Delhi consulate): I was extremely nervous about how will it go and while I waited for my turn, I was constantly checking if I have all the documents in place and properly tagged. Finally that moment came and this is how it followed:
VO (very soft spoken): Good morning!

Me: Good morning. How are you doing today.

VO: Why do you want to go to United States?

Me: Responded, citing my work.

VO: Where will you work in USA?

Me: Responded

VO: What is the work about?

Me: Responded

VO: Whom will you report to?

Me: Responded

VO: (again in a feeble voice): Where does your reporting manager sits?

Me (Nervous and out of nervousness wasn’t able to hear properly since there as another loud gentleman giving interview in Hindi right at the next window): Pardon me sir, can you please repeat.

VO (Concerned looks): Repeats the question

Me (again nervous): My Reporting manager is so and so

VO(Very concerned looks with raised eyebrows): Where does he work, in which city?

Me (Finally came back to my senses): Oh, so and so city (basically same city where I was headed)

VO (to my wife): When did you guys get married?

My Wife: Responded confidently.

VO (Smiled): Your Visa is approved. Can I have your passport

Us (Me and my wife): Thanked him and exited.

Interview 2 ( New Delhi Consulate): This interview was scheduled within couple days of us, landing in India.

Also during this visit, since I have serious dust allergy so my throat was choked and I could barely speak any word so could only whisper and that too after too much pain and effort. So wasn’t nervous but a little bit concerned as to how will it go with someone barely able to hear my voice.

While my turn came, the Visa office (a middle aged smiling lady was having a conversation with someone reg, some celebrity and suddenly she noticed I was at the window with my wife and daughter (1 yr old).

VO (Smiling): Good morning!

Me & My Wife: Very Good morning

VO: Do you know Mika Singh (Bollywood singer), he was here yesterday and I missed a chance to meet him.

Me (whispered with strange but smiling looks): Oh yes, you’d be amazed to know that I actually know him personally.

VO: So coming to the topic, why do you want to go to US?

Me (whispered): I apologize for my voice that I can only whisper. To answer your question, I work there in so and so city.

VO: Oh, you don’t sound well. I can understand Delhi weather.

Me: Yes dust allergies.

VO: May I see your passports

Me: Sure. handed her mine and my wife’s passport.

VO (Pointing towards my daughter): She’s wearing such a cute dress. Where’s her passport. Is she a citizen?

Me: Yes she was born there.

VO: Oh so you guys are back home for vacation. You Visas are approved.

Interview 3: This time we were in beautiful Vancouver, Canada. After gone through this process before, I was confident and wasn’t anxious at all.

After waiting for 30 minutes or so, our turn came:

VO: Good morning.

Me: Good morning.

VO: Why do you want to go to US?

Me: I work there in so and so city.

VO: Which company do you work for?

Me: Responded

VO: How much do you make annually?

Me: Responded.

VO: Can I see your bank statements?

Me (sheepishly): I am actually not carrying those with me but I do have pay stubs and income tax returns.

VO: ya that’d work.

Me: Here you go sir.

VO: Your visas are approved.

Me: Thank you sir. Have a nice day.

So in general here’s what I infer from all these interviews.

The Visa Officer just has few minutes to judge you and one of my family friend’s daughter (who is indeed a Visa Officer with Canadian Consulate) told me that she is trained enough to understand human behaviours and can easily catch when a person is lying or trying to hide something (not sure how much of that’s true by the way).

So of course how you present yourself and how confident you are in responding to what they’ve asked does matter and it gives the VO an affirmation that of course what the person is saying is indeed true and he/she will not misuse their Visas and hence they come to a decision.

Also be sure to be as concise as possible and make sure you just provide specifics of what’s being asked. Don’t go into explanations. You don’t need to explain someone why do you want to go to US if your motive of going there is clear and crisp.

Be honest and be truthful. This is what matters the most.

All the best.

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*Interview*

Me: Hello, Good morning !

VO : Hello Good morning, english or german ?

Me: Anything works, I’d prefer English though.

VO : Can I have your passport and receipt?

Me: Sure!

VO: Have you visited USA before ?

Me: no I have not .

VO: For how long you wanna go ?

Me: I wanna spend my winter holidays there.

VO: How long?

Me: 2-3 weeks.

VO: Where do you wanna go?

Me: Newyork and Chicago.

VO: Can I have your residence permit, what is your job profile?

Me: Sure, I am an engineer with ** and work as a development engineer.

VO: Okay, you code?

Me: No I dread it, but sometimes situations demand it also, honestly not my cup of tea.

VO :Oh yeah my bestfriend hates it also, what is all that C, B , and snake languages you all have.

*We chuckled- like I found my bestfriend :D *

Back in my head, I thought maybe shes gonna grant me the visa , we both were smiling when she handed me a green slip for 221g, and asked me to send my CV, my papers, my patents , researches and personal documents. I exclaimed, well its a visitors visa, I am not even attending any conference, and what is this slip about?

VO: We do this to all the skilled workers, it is important please send us these documents, you will be informed about your status once the process is completed.

With a heavy heart and broken dreams I came out of the consulate and could never forget how her smile tricked me. After a long wait and tons of patience and rage finally on 21st august I got an email that my visa has been aproved :)

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Visa experience : date: 29/04. Consulate: Delhi. Time: 9:15 am. Status: approved.

Program - Master of Science in Business Analytics

Questions: 1. In Total how many universities you applied to and what were those?

2. From how many you got admit?

3. Why this University ? Explained - the program benefits. ( Curriculum, faculty, old program)

4. Who is funding you? Answer - My family. (Forgot to mention about the money here)

5. What does your family do? Answered

6. Are you taking education loan? (Don't know why she asked me this, since i didn't mention about it) “No, i haven't taken any loan though i am eligible for loan of xx lakhs.” VO- so you are taking a loan or have it sanctioned?

It took some time in this point(i thought the chance is gone since she didn't ask me for any docs too) then i told her “No Ma’am, i haven't taken any loan since my family has required funds (xxx). i just wanted to check my eligibility in case i need it.— (seemed convinced now)

7. What are your plans after graduation? (only mention what you want to become, not where why)

8. Any companies on mind? (Since i didn’t want to take a risk and had did my research, i told here about an Indian firm and also that i can join my current company too)

Finally, she said ok, “your visa is approved.”

Suggestion: no need to arrive before your scheduled time. They won't allow you in, and waiting area doesn't have many seats. So you will need to wait in the sun. They start forming lines half an hour before so come around only 40 mins before your appointment time.

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