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The Secret to Passing Your F-1 Visa Interview
Pass the interview, get your F-1 visa.
Hey there!
Big congratulations on getting into a university in the U.S.!
That’s no small feat—and we’re genuinely proud of you.
Now comes the next big step in your journey: getting that F-1 visa approved.
Let’s be real—the visa interview can feel intimidating. You’ve probably heard stories about tough questions or surprise denials. But here’s the thing: the consular officer isn’t trying to trick you. Their job is simple—to confirm that you meet the basic student visa requirements.
Once you understand what they’re looking for, it gets way less scary.
At its core, the interview is about three things:
– Who you are
– Why you’re studying in the U.S.
– What you plan to do after graduation
They want to see that you’re serious about your studies, can afford your education, and plan to return home after you graduate. That’s it.
But how you communicate this makes all the difference. Speak clearly, stay consistent with your documents, and show that you’ve thought things through.
Here are a few common questions—and how to answer them well:
Not an incoming student? Fill out this quick survey so we can send you tailored content based on where you’re at in your international student journey.
Why did you choose this university?
"I chose [University Name] because of its strong [program name] and research opportunities. I was especially drawn to [professor/course/ranking], which aligns with my career goals."
What’s your program of study, and why?
"I’ll be studying [your major] because I’m passionate about [field]. This program offers hands-on learning and internships that will prepare me for a career in [industry]."
What are your plans after graduation?
"I plan to return to [home country] and work in [industry or company]. I want to use the knowledge I gain to contribute to [goal, e.g., building infrastructure, improving healthcare, starting a company]."
How will you pay for your education?
"My expenses will be covered by [family support/personal savings/scholarship/loan], and I have financial documents to prove it."
Your answers should be clear and confident. If the officer senses hesitation or inconsistency, it can raise red flags.
Still putting your paperwork together? Don’t worry—we’ve got you.
We created the Ultimate Guide to the F-1 Student Visa, a 90-page e-book that breaks down everything from preparing for your F-1 interview to maintaining your visa status in the U.S to securing work authorization.
You’ve worked hard to get to this point—and we’re here to help you finish strong. If you’ve got any questions, just reply to this email. We’ve got your back.
See you in the U.S.!
Best,
The Roam Growth Team