US Student Visa: A student from India applying for an F-1 visa at the US Consulate in Chennai has shared his experience on Reddit after being refused. The applicant, who planned to pursue a Master’s in Information Technology at Fordham University, detailed his interaction with the visa officer, a 28+ year-old Asian American woman stationed at Counter 15.
University and Course Questions
The interview began with the officer asking about the applicant’s chosen university.
VO – Please pass your passport and I-20
Me – Good morning officer, here you go
VO – Good morning
VO – Are you going to Fordham?
Me – Yes, Officer
The officer then inquired about other universities the applicant had applied to.
VO – What are the other universities you’ve applied to?
Me – Apart from Fordham, I’ve applied to Rutgers, Officer.
When asked why he applied to only two universities, the applicant explained his focus on a specific curriculum.
“Officer, I was looking for a specific MSIT curriculum which has system design, AI/ML and project management which I couldn’t find in any other universities except these two.
Financial Preparedness and Career Goals
The officer next asked about his financial backing.
VO – Are you taking an Education loan?
Me – Thanks. Yes, Officer. I am taking an Education loan of up to $71,000 and I have a personal savings of up to $8,200 which I saved during my corporate experience.”
The officer also verified his fingerprints and asked about his current employment.
VO – Are you working at Comcast?
Me – Yes, Officer.
Finally, the applicant explained why he wanted to pursue a master’s degree at this stage in his career.
“Officer, I want to get into the technical leadership roles. For that I need to equip myself with a variety of technologies along with project management skills. That’s why I need a master’s now.”
Visa Refusal
Despite answering all questions, the visa officer refused the application.
VO – Unfortunately we can’t approve your visa today. You may reapply
Me – Officer, May I know why?
VO – It’s in the slip. Please read it
Me – Alright, Thanks.
The applicant expressed disappointment but noted that sharing his experience on Reddit could help future applicants prepare for similar interviews.
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