Visa Interview Information

Interview Advice

Provide the correct documents and make the right impression on the consular officer. Here are a few steps to help you interview:

MAKE A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION - There is little time to talk, so dress and act professionally.
BE BRIEF AND DIRECT - Keep your answers and explanations short; consular officers only spend a short time with each applicant. The visa officer must know your specific reasons for studying in the U.S. Visa officers don't like vague answers or memorized speeches. (If you are unable to answer questions in English, and the visa officer does not speak your language, you can ask for an interpreter.)
BE POSITIVE - Do not argue with the consular officer or be rude or sarcastic; even if you are denied a visa. Instead, politely ask the officer to suggest additional documents you could bring in order to succeed in the future.
EXPLAIN YOUR PLAN TO RETURN TO YOUR HOME COUNTRY - Tell the consular officer that the only purpose of your visit is to pursue a program of study. Tell them why you plan to complete this study and when you will return home. Tell them how your study in the U.S. will help you get a job in your home country when you return. You may also discuss your family ties, business interests and assets in your home country (or bring along documentation).

VALID PASSPORT - Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your entry date into the U.S.
I-20 FORM - Bring your SEVIS I-20 form that has been issued by USC, if you are an F-1 student. Make sure you give the consular officer all three pages of the I-20 form to inspect.
COMPLETED NONIMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATION FORM (DS-156) WITH PHOTO FOR EACH PERSON APPLYING - A separate form is needed for children, even if they are included on their parent's passport. These forms are available at the embassy at no charge.
LETTER OF ADMISSION TO USC - This is not required, but some students prefer to bring their letter of admission to USC.
TRANSCRIPTS - Bring a copy of your university or law school transcripts.
PROOF OF FUNDING - You will need to show proof of your financial funding. This may be in the form of a bank statement (no older than three months) or a letter from your sponsor with funding information (or both if necessary).
RECEIPT FOR VISA PROCESSING FEE - When you go to the U.S. consulate or embassy to apply for your visa, you will first have to pay the visa processing fee. On paying the fee, you will be issued a receipt. Keep this receipt showing payment of the application fee for each applicant, including each child listed on a parent's passport who is also applying for a U.S. visa, to present to the consular officer during the interview.