Higher education in United States ( Part -3) -
9-Dec-2016
First Admission, Then Visa
The United States remains one of the most popular choices for higher education amongst international students. That is due, in large part, to the large number of internationally ranked universities and colleges in the United States which offer flexible and competitive degrees with a strong focus on real-world experience.
Gaining admission into one of these schools is the first and most important part of pursuing higher education in the United States, but after that, of course, comes the process of acquiring a student visa. The following questions and answers would help clear up any confusion regarding the process.
Does the visa process take as long as I hear?
Once applicants complete the user-friendly student visa application on the Consular Electronic Application Center website, two appointment slots will be assigned to them. The first appointment will be for submission of their information, including fingerprints and a photo, at the Visa Application Center. The second appointment will be for their interview at the U.S. Consulate General. Once applicants are interviewed and their visa approved, they receive their passports within one week. You are now ready to travel!
What are the right answers to the visa interview questions?
Dont let anyone tell you that there is one right answer. There are no right answers, because every student is different. The visa officers enjoy engaging with students and look forward to learning about their education plans during the interview. Be honest and share your plans! Students should be able to discuss their choice of school, explain their career goals, and talk about the financial arrangements theyve made to afford studying in the United States.
What should I bring to my interview?
Students should remember to bring their acceptance letter, their I-20 form issued by the chosen university or college, standardized test scores, and any other documents that would be helpful in their interview. Did you know that the U.S. Consulate General in Chennai conducts 1,000 to 1,500 visa interviews per day? Most visa interviews do not last more than five minutes. You can understand then why its important for the student to be able to concisely and fully answer the visa officers questions.
What documents should I carry with me when I travel?
Once a visa has been approved, students can start preparing for their exciting journey to the United States. They should travel with their I-20 form and their passports since the immigration officers at the ports-of-entry may ask to see them. Additionally, students have to be sure that they have paid the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee prior to the interview, and they should carry the proof of payment along with their passport when they enter the United States. Students will have difficulty enrolling in classes for their programs if they cant show that theyve paid the fee.
What else do I need to know?
Anyone who has ever traveled or studied in a different country knows that it comes with unique challenges. It is important for students to familiarize themselves with the U.S. education system and take measures to smoothly transition into a new culture.
EducationUSAs pre-departure orientation sessions are a great way to get started. Alumni events, information sessions, and virtual campus tours held by the respective universities or colleges are other resources that students can utilize. Most importantly, get involved with the community and students at your new school and have fun!
If you have further questions, you can find information on our website: in.usembassy.gov/visas.
You can also learn more about studying in the United States here: educationusa.state.gov.
Subscription 
