Many applicants for student visas are denied for reasons which may be avoided if a little advanced knowledge and common sense are applied. Here is some information to remember for prospective students when preparing for an interview with a U.S. consular officer:
Anticipate that the interview will be conducted in English. One suggestion is to practice English conversation with a native speaker before the interview. Keep in mind that all consular officers are under considerable time pressure to conduct a quick and efficient interview. They must make a decision, for the most part, on those impressions they form during the first minute or two of the interview. Consequently, what you say first and the initial impression you create are critical to your success. Keep your answers to the officer's questions short and to the point.
Do not bring family members with you to the interview. The officer wants to interview you, not your family.
Maintain a positive attitude. Do not engage the consular officer in an argument. If you are denied a student visa, ask the officer for a list of documents he or she would suggest you bring in order to overcome the refusal and try to get the reason you were denied in writing.
Do not concede, under any circumstance, that you intend to work in the US after completing your studies.
If you spouse is also applying for an F-2 Visa, be aware that F-2 dependents cannot, under any circumstance, be employed in the USA. Be prepared to address what your spouse intends to do with his or her time while in the U.S.
If your spouse and children are remaining behind in your country, be prepared to address how they will support themselves in your absence. This can be an especially tricky area if you are the primary source of income for your family. If the consular officer gains the impression that your family will need you to remit money from the U.S. in order to support it, you student visa application will most certainly be denied.
