Before I get into details about the whole visa application procedures, here’s the first thing I want you to understand about the visa. ‘Obtaining the US F1 (Student) Visa is a very simple and straightforward procedure’. So please don’t get paranoid about it and don’t go overboard preparing for it.

To begin with, read this document ‘Things to do for your US F1 Visa’

Now lets talk of the most frequently questions that bog student’s minds:

What are visa officers looking for?
Visa officers are looking at two main aspects. First, is the student genuinely interested in education and second, does the student have sufficient financial resources available to pay for his/her education.

Do I need all the funds in my sponsor’s savings account?
No, you do not need all your funds in your savings accounts. It could be spread over various investments. The point is that these funds should be accessible to you and your sponsor without any restrictions.

Will showing an educational loan affect my chances of getting a visa?An educational loan will NOT affect your chances of getting a visa. So if you are planning to take a loan for your education, do not hesitate to disclose it to the visa officer. In fact an educational loan will only make your financial situation stronger.

Can I show my property as source of funding?
If the property is a house where your family is currently staying, then avoid showing it as source of funding. Showing your current home would mean that you are planning to sell it (and render your family homeless) to pay for your education. However If you have investments in real estate, you may show it but you might then require proper valuation such investments.

Can I show my family jewelry, car as source of funding?
Avoid doing so.

What if my brother, sister, father, mother is in the US?I don’t think that’s something you need to worry about. Feel free to openly disclose about any immediate family members being in the US.

My parents are retired. Will this affect my chances of getting a visa?No it won’t affect your chances at all. As long as your family’s financial condition is stable enough to pay for your education and support them too, that’s perfectly fine.

I am sure you have many more questions. Feel free to email us and we will be glad to answer them for you.

Jay Rege jayrege[at]academyone.net
Jothsna Rege jothsna[at]academyone.net