F-1 Visa Rejection: Indian Student's Mistake
A small misstep during a U.S. visa interview proved costly for an Indian student admitted to the University of Texas at Arlington, as his F-1 student visa was denied despite having all required documentation and university acceptance in place.
The student, who shared his experience on Reddit, detailed how his response to the visa officer’s question about his course of study may have led to the rejection. He mentioned “Computer Science” as his major, while his Form I-20 listed "Computer and Information Sciences", and he failed to correct this minor discrepancy during the interview.
Despite his efforts to explain his choice of university and mention other offers from institutions such as UT Dallas, Stevens Institute of Technology, and SUNY Binghamton, the interview was cut short, and the officer informed him, “Sorry, I cannot approve your visa.”
What Went Wrong?
According to reactions from the international student community, the key mistakes were:
- Lack of alignment between spoken answers and documents
- Generic responses without personalized academic motivations
- Inadequate preparation for expected interview questions
The case highlights a pattern seen in recent U.S. visa interviews, where inconsistent answers or vague justifications are leading to an increasing number of rejections.
Key Takeaways for Future Applicants
Visa experts and experienced students suggest:
- Match your answers exactly with your I-20 and supporting documents
- Be prepared to explain why you chose your specific university and course
- Practice confident, clear, and concise responses
Rising Rejections Spark Debate
In recent months, Indian students have reported several unexpected F-1 rejections, including cases where candidates were asked technical questions or faced confusion over financial sponsorship details. This has raised concerns about transparency and consistency in visa adjudication.
This student’s experience is a reminder that even one minor mistake in an interview can cost a U.S. visa. Thorough preparation, honest and accurate responses, and attention to detail are essential for success.
