USA F1 Visa Interview: Questions, Answers & Tips – Part II
In Part I of the blog, we discuss the major categories of questions asked in the USA student visa interview. The blog shed light on some ideal questions on personal preferences and family information categories coupled with ways to answer them. We also outlined some quick tips to follow when scheduling and appearing for the interview. In this blog, we will delve into the 3 that act as the pillars of your dreams – Academia, Finance and Future Plans.
Academia
This category dives deeper into your previous academic records, performance and current selections.
"How well can you speak English?"
Taking an English proficiency test is mandatory to study in the USA. You may select between IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo. All these tests demonstrate your English listening, speaking, reading and speaking skills but differ in syllabus, format and duration. Universities too have specific requirements for such tests. Carry your test results with you to present during these questions. Discuss your strengths as well as limitations.
"Why did you choose this course?" or "Which subject will you specialise in?"
Do prior research on your course and its syllabus to gain a clear understanding of the key elements of the course. Host further research to compare the course with that of other US universities. It will support your cause if you have had previous education and//or work experience that aligns with your selections.
The (course name) in (university name) fits perfectly with both my previous experience and future plans. I have studied (previous course) from (previous institute) that solidified my core interest and foundation in the subject. Seeking further education or specialisation and training in it will boost my skills. And, if effect, my career prospects in the field. I aim to become a (job profile) and with my research on the subject, I believe (course name) is the right fit.
If you are changing your field, you must specify the reasons to do that. Or this would be asked in a separate question. Explain what seeded or piqued your interest in the new field and how you plan on managing the change.
"Which city is your university in?" or "Mention the names of some of the professors at your chosen university?"
These types of questions further investigate your research. At this point, you must be aware of every aspect of your course. Even your unconditional letter details all the major factors related to your course. Research the course syllabus, choice of subjects, professors and their accomplishments, and so on. Furthermore, learn more about the city, the locality, accommodation and food options and other key aspects of your living. If there is a specific professor you admire or wish to assist during your course, mention them.
"Where did you get admission?" or "Why did you choose this university instead of others who offer the same or similar courses?"
There are indeed a handful of other universities in the USA that offer the same course. The reason for me to choose this course particularly in (university name) is their global reputation, top-notch facilities and faculties. It involves some subjects like (names) that were either unavailable or taught at an advanced level in other universities. These were crucial for the course I wish to pursue and I wanted to go for the best.
"Which universities did you apply to?"
Just be honest. As long as you have an acceptance letter from your university, it doesn’t matter how many and which universities you have applied to. The USA has limits to neither the courses nor universities. The visa authority is only interested in witnessing that you have conducted thorough research before putting in your applications. Mention all the universities you applied to, specifying the ones you were successfully admitted to.
Finances
This section requires more straight answers than the previous ones. Some of the questions you can expect are:
- What is your university's annual fee?
- What is the annual income of your father or spouse?
- What is their name, age and occupation? (optional)
- How will you fund your studies? How will you manage the other expenses?
- Have you attained any scholarships? Which ones did you apply for? (optional)
- Which bank is providing you with the educational loan? How do you plan on managing the loan?
- Why do you have large transactions in recent days? (optional)
Future Plans
One doesn’t pursue a course for the heck of it. Studying in a foreign education costs a fortune. You must choose courses that align with your career interests and plans.
"What will you do if your visa is rejected?"
The question doesn’t mean they are going to, in fact, reject you. The answer to this type of question should show your commitment to your studies.
I will come back again. Yes, the rejection would indeed disappoint me. I have invested so much of my time and interest in this journey that I already feel as if I have it. It has always been my dream to study in the USA and it will be sad to feel the dream reaching so close and not fully experiencing it. My commitment to living my dreams will help me find the errors of my way. I will reapply for the visa. And I will come stronger to ensure a visa the next time.
"How often would you be travelling to India?"
I believe it is only going to be during the holidays. India is pretty far from the USA. As much as I would miss my parents and family back home, I wouldn’t have the luxury of seeing them too often. My course would neither allow so much time away nor can I afford the distraction. It does involve (the holiday period) but I wish to stay back to witness the US culture and festivals to make the most out of my experience.
"Do you plan to return to your home country after completing your studies?"
Reply positively as loud as you can. Well, not vocally but with a demonstration of strong ties with your homeland. Many international students do want to stay back after completing their course. As long as you are not staying in the US for more than a few years or as your visa permits, mention it in your answer.
My father has about 7 years to retire. I wish my mother to retire from the household too. This course will open gates to many career opportunities in India which would also help me stay close to them and take care of all their needs. India is where my family, friends and relatives are. It is where I was born and raised, and where I wish to grow old. Living the life I always have, in our family home. However, I do wish to stay for a year to gain some experience in the US market. This would not only better my chances of finding a fulfilling job in India but would result in a higher salary package.
"Do you have any plans of doing a PhD?" or "Do you have a job or career in mind post-graduation?"
If you do, convey your intentions. Otherwise, it is okay if you haven’t planned for it yet. Students often like to take time and see how things pan out for them in a new country. During your course, you will take part in projects, internships and research. This would help you understand if you want to seek specialisation, do a postgraduation course or perform independent research. Again, clarify that while these may be the next step, you would want to come back to India after the course completion and take time to evaluate your options.
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