A recent F-1 visa experience shared by a student on Reddit has garnered attention for its tense interview and uncertain outcome. The applicant, who is set to pursue a Master’s in Information Systems (MSIS) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, detailed how their interaction at the Hyderabad US consulate led to the issuance of a 221(g) slip—often seen as a temporary setback in the visa process.
The interview began with the visa officer asking the candidate to list other universities they had applied to besides UW-Madison. When the student mentioned UC Irvine, the officer immediately interrupted to ask why UW-Madison was preferred over UC Irvine. As the student tried to explain the decision, citing UW-Madison’s strong automotive sector research that aligned with their past professional experience and future goals, the officer seemed visibly irritated and cut the explanation short.
“She asked me to place my left four fingers for scanning and handed me a white 221(g) slip,” the applicant wrote. “She told me to keep my social media accounts public and said I would receive an email in five days.”
The emotional toll was evident in the post. “Honestly, I really was super nervous… this was one of the best opportunities I got till date… just the fact that I might get rejected because I got nervous is something I am not able to digest,” the student added.
The post drew a wave of support and analysis from the Reddit community. One user reassured, “He gave 221g just to check your socials. If he wanted to reject, he would’ve given 214(b). Will be approved most probably. Wish you luck.”
Another user added, “100% if you have not posted anything questionable on social media.”
Others chimed in with similar experiences, noting that 221(g) is not a rejection but often a standard procedure to verify additional information. One Redditor commented, “I got 221(g) for my F-1 too. Cleared in 7 days after they verified my LinkedIn and Instagram. Stay calm.”