Decoding visa requirements for international students can be challenging. Here, we’ll explore recent updates to the student visa process in the United States, and share best practices for acing your F-1 student visa interview (if required—more on that below.)
Before applying for your student visa, you’ll need to be accepted by an academic institution certified by the US Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP).
US Student Visa Categories
Got your Letter of Acceptance? Before we dive in, let’s look at the three relevant visa categories:
- F Student Visa: Reserved for students looking to study at a college or university in the US, or to study English at an English language institute
- J Exchange Visa: Awarded to students looking to participate in an exchange program at the high school or university level
- M Student Visa: For students looking for non-academic or vocational training in the US
Partial Interview Waiver for 2022
Some good news for students applying for F visas: In December 2021, the US Secretary of State in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security authorized a partial waiver on in-person visa interviews, in effect until December 31, 2022.
While the interview waiver is still at the discretion of consular officers, and not open to students from every country, this update will help the worldwide visa process run more efficiently.
Please check the website of the relevant US embassy or consulate in your home country to find guidelines on applying for a visa without an interview.
Learn more about recent US policy updates that support international students on our blog!
Interview Tips
If you’re not eligible for the waiver, and a F-1 visa interview is in your future, here’s how you can put your best foot forward.
Do Your Research
Whether it’s knowing that F-1 visas are non-immigrant visas (and tailoring your answers to show that you intend to return to your home country after graduating), or being able to answer specific questions about your program, having a solid foundation of knowledge will help you present thoughtful answers.
Practice Makes Perfect
Do practice interviews with a family member or friend, in person or on a video call. Can’t line up someone to practice on? Practice with your pets or plants—we won’t judge! It’s important to prepare your answers before the real interview. You’ll be more likely to give clear responses.
Consider Your Self
When you practice for the interview, have the person who’s asking you questions assess the content of your answers and non-verbal cues. Researchers have found that non-verbal cues like tone and body language can impact over half (55%) of a conversation.
Are you fidgeting when you reply? Playing with your hair or your shirt as you listen? Interviewers will notice this, and may not rank you as highly. On the positive side, speaking slowly and clearly can help you sound more confident. Also, making appropriate levels of eye contact can help you connect with the interviewer.
Considering other study abroad countries? Learn how to ace the UK credibility interview.
Make the Most of Each Question
Every interview will be different, but each one will touch on similar topics. Below, we’ll look at common interview questions, and suggest ideas to help you stand out.
Why did you choose to study in the US, instead of studying or joining the workforce in your home country?
- Share why you chose the program you did, and how your studies will help you get a great job in your home country.
- Share different job opportunities and salaries in your field that you could get with and without studying abroad.
Why did you choose this school?
- Be specific. Talk about things like the institution’s research excellence, reputation, and/or work-integrated learning opportunities.
- Tie the reasons you give to how they’ll help you meet your study goals.
- Share why this university or college is the best fit for you.
- Look up your institution’s ranking with Times Higher Education or Forbes. If you’re enrolling in robotics, and you’re attending a top-50 school for it, that knowledge can prove your study intent.
What are your test scores (i.e.: TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT, or SAT), your GPA, and what are you like as a student in general?
- Bring your test result copies to the interview if possible, for reference.
- While test results and GPA are important, they don’t show the whole picture. You can briefly speak to your athletic or community service achievements as well.
How are you funding your tuition and living expenses while studying abroad?
- You may have to share your exact tuition cost per year, so look it up beforehand on the ApplyBoard Platform.
- If family members are supporting you, be ready to share their yearly salary as well as what they do for a living.
- Consider living expenses like rent, food, and insurance. Many institutions post student living expense averages on their websites. After you’re accepted, use those numbers to shape your budget.
Check out our blog on what kinds of insurance you’ll need as an international student in the US.
Are you planning to return to your home country after graduating?
- This question assesses your intentions. Because F visas are non-immigrant visas, it’s important to share that you plan to leave the US after your studies end.
- Strengthen your response by sharing some companies you plan to apply to post-graduation, or how you’d like to make an impact in your field.
With preparation, you’ll be ready for your F-1 visa interview. The night before, try your best to get a good sleep, so you’ll be alert, and remember to eat some breakfast—even if you’re nervous. You’ve got this!
Ready to search for study abroad opportunities in the US? Find programs from over 200 institutions on the ApplyBoard Platform.
