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Each year, thousands of student visas are declined for two main reasons. First, the applicants were not properly prepared for their interviews. Second, they were unable to convince visa officials that they would return to their native countries after graduation.
To help increase your chances for success, senior officials at the American Embassy offer these tips:
Tip One:
Get free and accurate advice directly from the US government. Before you begin your application, take the time to visit the
State Department's
web site to better understand procedures. Also, visit the web site
for the
US Embassy or Consulate in your native country. They often have visa advice in your native language.
Tip Two:
Apply no earlier than 90 days before you must report to school in the US Officials cannot process your application any earlier, because of visa regulations.
Tip Three:
Prepare yourself properly. In addition to the regular student visa requirements, you should also bring:
- Your diploma(s) or official school records.
- Your scores from tests such as the TOEFLŽ test, SAT, GREŽ
exam and GMAT.
- All important school correspondence, including e-mail messages. Especially bring those documents that discuss scholarships, fellowships or other types of financial aid.
- Evidence that you have adequate financial support, such as bank documents. Bring business cards, if you have been working. It isn't necessary to have been awarded a
scholarship, if financial support can be shown. Also, make certain that you can demonstrate how you will repay any large loans after graduation.
- Any other documents that would be helpful.
Tip Four:
Although the visa interview is typically brief, it usually must be conducted in English. No one is allowed to accompany you in this meeting. During the interview, do not use a memorized text. Otherwise, you will greatly reduce your chances. The first thing a visa official will do is try to move you away from prepared speeches. They want to know what your real intentions are, not what someone advised you to say.
Tip Five:
Tell the truth. It's very important that you are completely honest during the visa interview. If you have family members in the US, then you should admit it. If you aren't sure about an answer, tell the official you aren't sure. The more honest you are, the more credibility you will have during your interview.
Tip Six:
Show compelling reasons why you want to return to your native country after your studies. This is very important for obtaining an US student visa. For instance, if you have decided to study a subject that will be useful in your native country, tell the visa official. If family members hold positions in government, industry or education, you can explain how they will help you find a good job in your country after graduation.
Officials say there is no single thing that determines whether a student will receive a visa or not. That is why it's in your best interests to prepare properly ahead of time.
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