From Student Blogger, Nand: 10 Tips for F-1 Visa Interview
Hi friends, my name is Nand Javia. I started my undergraduate degree at Orange Coast College in Summer 2018. I thought of sharing my experience and give 10 tips on my F-1 visa interview. It was on April 25th, 2018 at the US Embassy in Lusaka, Zambia.
- Reach 30 minutes early - I went early and had to wait outside on a hot sunny day. But it’s much better than arriving late.
- Dress semi-formally - wearing a t-shirt and jeans is not appropriate according to me. A shirt and pants should be fine. No need to put on a three piece suit.
- Be aware of your body and hand gestures - don’t move your hands a lot while talking and stand straight. Do not lean on the window and try to maintain eye contact while talking.
- Answer straight to the question asked - if you are a storyteller like me, you should control your words and keep it short and informative.
- Double check your documents to be taken for the interview a night before.
- Do not be in a hurry and show your bank statements or CA statements unless asked for.
- Do not try to fake your accent - I have seen many people try to talk in American accent, thinking that it makes them sound smart. But NO, it doesn’t. Your accent will not determine the result so be natural.
- If you do not understand the question then politely ask them to repeat - use ‘Please, say again’ or ‘Please, repeat the question’
- Speaking slower is better than taking long pauses during the interview
- Do not talk about any aspirations of staying in the U.S. after your education - Firstly, it’s important to understand that there can be so many ups and downs during the time you study here, even if you wish to work in the U.S. after your education, the situation might not be the same after 3-4 years. Secondly, they just won’t give you an F1 visa if you talk about staying longer in the U.S. haha!
CLICK HERE to read my previous blog on my journey before coming to the US.
For more information: Orange Coast College
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