F-1 Visa Success: Indian Student Approved in 45 Secs

An Indian student recently achieved a remarkable success by securing an F-1 visa for the University of Michigan–Dearborn in just 45 seconds during their first attempt at the U.S. Embassy in Chennai. The student shared their experience on Reddit, highlighting the efficiency and professionalism of the visa interview process.

Interview Experience

The applicant arrived at the consulate around 6:30 AM, noting that the early hours were calm but quickly turned crowded by 6:45 AM. Entry began as per scheduled slots, with the candidate entering the premises at 7:30 AM for their 8:00 AM appointment.

The visa officer (VO), described as a calm and composed Asian-American woman, started the interview by asking for the passport and I-20 form. She inquired about the applicant’s undergraduate completion date and what they had been doing since. The candidate shared their work experience as a Trainee Design Engineer and their decision to resign in order to focus on GRE, TOEFL, and their transition from production design to simulation-based design.

When asked why they chose to pursue a master's degree now, the applicant responded honestly about their planned career shift and ethical decision to not join a company training program they didn't intend to complete. The VO smiled and proceeded with biometric scanning before revealing a fun coincidence—they shared the same birthday, exactly 20 years apart. The visa was approved on the spot.

Key Takeaways

• Preparation and Honesty: The applicant's clear and truthful responses contributed to the positive outcome.
• Confidence and Composure: Maintaining a calm demeanor helped in presenting oneself effectively.
• Efficiency of the Process: The interview was conducted swiftly, reflecting the streamlined procedures at the embassy.

This experience serves as a reminder that thorough preparation, honesty, and a composed attitude can significantly influence the outcome of visa interviews.