A recent F-1 visa interview at the US Consulate in Mumbai ended in frustration for an Indian student, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by applicants under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act. The student, who completed a Bachelor’s in Information Technology in 2025 with a CGPA of 9.15, was denied the visa after a brief interaction with the consular officer.
Brief Interview, Quick Rejection
The applicant arrived at the consulate at 8:25 AM for a 7:15 AM slot, eventually entering the premises at around 9:00 AM. “Good Morning officer,” the applicant greeted. “Good Morning, How are you doing?” VO replied. The consular officer, described as a woman in her early 30s with straight hair, reviewed the student’s documents before asking, “When did you graduate?”
The student replied, “I completed my bachelors in information technology in year 2025 with the CGPA of 9.15.”
Before the student could respond further, the VO interrupted with a follow-up question: “What other universities did you apply for?” The applicant answered, “I had applied in 3 universities — Temple University, Rowan University, Florida Atlantic University, but processed my I20 with Temple University.”
Visa Denial Under Section 214(b)
The consular officer then instructed the student to place their left-hand fingers on the scanner. Shortly afterward, the applicant was handed the 214(b) refusal slip. “Your Visa is refused,” the slip stated, citing an inability to demonstrate strong ties to the home country.
The interview, which lasted approximately 30 to 40 seconds, left the applicant perplexed about the abrupt denial process. The experience underscores the stringent scrutiny applied during US F1 visa interviews, especially regarding evidence of intent to return home after studies.
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