An Indian student’s F1 visa success story has gone viral after they shared their detailed interview experience at the Mumbai Consulate on June 5, 2025. The applicant, heading to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Game Design in Chicago, posted the interaction on Reddit, offering a helpful guide to fellow aspirants.
According to the Reddit post, the student had a 9:20 am slot and was interviewed at counter 35 by a young visa officer. The conversation was casual yet thorough, covering the applicant’s academic background, professional experience, and future goals.
The student completed their undergraduate degree in September 2023 and has since interned and worked full-time at a multimedia company. When asked about the connection between their undergrad and the MFA program, the applicant explained how 3D and animation skills align with game design.
One of the lighter moments came when the officer inquired if the student’s sibling in the U.S. was their “real sister,” to which the applicant responded with a laugh, confirming she works in San Jose after studying at an American university.
The visa officer eventually smiled and approved the visa, assuring the student they would receive their passport within a week. The post concluded with advice for others preparing for their interviews: “As long as you keep it genuine and conversational, everything will go well.”
This firsthand account on Reddit has since received widespread appreciation for its honest and encouraging tone, especially from students navigating the uncertainty around U.S. student visas in 2025.