Visa Interview

At the time of your appointment, you will have an interview with a consular officer.  These interviews are generally very brief (2-3 minutes). During this time, there are three main things the officer will want to establish: 

       1) that you are a real student,

       2) that you can pay for your education, and

       3) that you have binding ties to your home country (non-immigrant intent). 

Remember: The F-1 Student Visa is a non-immigrant visa, so if the consular officer feels that your true intent is to immigrate to the U.S., your visa may be denied.  

WP advises that you put all of your documents together in a folder/binder with tabs so that you can quickly access information that pertains to a question from the consular officer. It is advisable to be prepared to talk about:

• Your educational and career goals, and how you plan to apply them in your home country. It is also helpful to be familiar with prospects for employment in your field once you return home. If you plan to return to a job in your home country, make sure to bring evidence of this.
• Be familiar with your academic field of study and with William Paterson University. The consular officer will want to know that you plan to study what and where you say you will.
• Why you wish to study in the U.S. rather than in your home country.
• Any ties you have to your family and community in your home country.
• Example questions:
  • Why do you want to study at WP?
  • What is your purpose of coming to the U.S?
  • Who is paying for your school?
  • What classes will you be taking?
  • Will you be working?
  • Have you applied for a visa before?
  • How is your sponsor going to pay for school?
• Answer questions thoroughly and honestly. If the consular officer asks you about one aspect, make sure you fully answer the question and even think about what follow questions they might ask and go ahead and answer those. For example, if they ask you who is paying for your tuition, make sure to explain about any scholarships, personal funds, and your financial sponsors, and even offer to show documents.

Tips to Remember

• Dress nicely and be organized. Take documents out of envelopes and sort them according to purpose so you can access them easily.  Be sure that documents are clear at a glance and don’t require complicated explanations.  Bring English translations when necessary.
• You will likely only have 2-3 minutes for your interview, so be prepared to give concise answers to questions posed. Don’t be anxious; just answer questions posed honestly and clearly.  You may practice ahead of time with a friend or family member.  
• Be prepared to have the interview conducted in English.