Getting an F1 visa isn’t easy but it’s not impossible. You need to have all relevant documents in place and all F1 requirements fulfilled. However, there could be one hurdle that you may find difficult to get through but with proper preparation even that is a piece of cake. We are talking about the F1 US Visa interview. Your performance in the interview determines whether you are going to get the ticket to your dream school abroad.  Hence, it is essential to be well-prepared for the interview. 

To help you with the preparations, we’ve compiled a list of five things that you should remember before attending the US Student visa interview.

• Thorough Research– Research the interview questions that you might be asked and practice answering those questions. You can also attend mock interviews to be familiar with the process and the question pattern. Following this practice not only boosts your confidence, but also improves your speaking skills.

• Relevant Documents- During the interview process, the visa officers may ask you to provide proofs related to academics/application. Make sure you have all the documents neatly organized in a file, and ready to be presented to the officers. Also, remember to keep a checklist for all the needed documents to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Smart Formal Outfit – US student visa interview is a formal occasion. Hence, select something formal — a western formal works well. Pre-plan your interview outfit and make sure it is neatly ironed and appropriate for the interview.

• Clear Career Plan – The interviewer may ask you questions regarding your future career plans to ensure that you are not planning to work or immigrate to the US. Be prepared to explain why you choose the course in the US, and how this course will help you when you are back to your homeland after your studies are over. Convince the panel that you have strong ties to your homeland (yes, you cannot give the interviewer the impression of staying in the US).

• Positive Attitude – Most interviewers judge you based on your performance and attitude in the interview. Hence, try to maintain a positive attitude and try to be polite during the interview. Too much stress can affect your performance.

The F1 US Visa Interview is a bridge that you have to cross to fulfill your dreams to study abroad. These five steps mentioned above will to some extent help you do that. So just go prepared and be positive, things will work out for you.