Frequently Asked Questions
Essential FAQs for Bangladeshi students preparing for the F-1 visa application process.
If you’ve received your I-20 form and are preparing for your US visa interview, you likely have several questions about the process. Below is a detailed FAQ section addressing common concerns for Bangladeshi students applying for an F-1 visa.
1. What is the DS-160 Form, and how do I fill it out?
The DS-160 is the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, a crucial part of the visa application process.
Where to fill it out?
Complete the DS-160 form online at the CEAC website. Ensure all details are accurate and match your documents.Key Details to Note:
Your SEVIS ID (found on your I-20 form)
Intended program and institution details
Passport information
Travel plans (even if tentative)
Past travel history to the US or other countries
Tips for Accuracy:
Use a professional-looking photo as per US embassy requirements.
Save your application number in case you need to retrieve your form later.
2. What is the SEVIS fee, and how do I pay it?
The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee supports the system tracking your student status.
How to Pay:
Visit FMJfee.com and pay the fee online using a credit or debit card. The current SEVIS fee for F-1 students is $350.When to Pay:
Pay this fee before scheduling your visa interview. Keep the payment receipt, as it will be required during the interview.
3. How do I schedule the visa interview?
Once you’ve completed the DS-160 and paid the SEVIS fee, you can schedule your visa interview.
Steps to Schedule:
Create an account on the US Travel Docs website.
Pay the visa application fee (approximately $160) at a designated bank or online.
Choose a date and time for your interview at the US Embassy in Dhaka.
4. What documents do I need for the visa interview?
Ensure you carry the following essential documents:
Mandatory Documents:
Valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay)
DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
Visa fee payment receipt
SEVIS fee receipt
I-20 form issued by your university
Admission letter from your institution
Supplementary Documents:
Academic transcripts and certificates (O/A levels, SSC/HSC, or equivalent)
Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
Bank statements or financial proof (covering tuition and living expenses)
Sponsor's letter (if applicable)
Ties to Bangladesh (e.g., property documents, family connections)
5. What questions can I expect in the visa interview?
Visa officers want to ensure you’re a genuine student and will return to Bangladesh after completing your studies.
Common Questions:
Why did you choose this university?
What are your academic and career goals?
How will you fund your education?
Who is your financial sponsor?
What do you plan to do after graduation?
Do you have relatives in the US?
Tips for Responses:
Be honest, concise, and confident.
Provide specific answers about your program and its relevance to your goals.
Avoid sounding unsure or rehearsed.
6. What financial documentation is required?
Proving financial stability is critical for visa approval.
Documents to Prepare:
Bank statements showing funds to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one year.
Affidavit of support from your sponsor.
Proof of income for your sponsor (e.g., salary slips, tax returns).
Loan approval letters (if applicable).
How Much Funding Should I Show?
You need to demonstrate access to funds covering the total cost of attendance (tuition + living expenses) for at least one year.
7. Can I include extracurricular activities in my interview preparation?
Yes! Highlighting extracurricular achievements demonstrates well-roundedness and leadership qualities.
Examples to Mention:
Volunteer work
Leadership roles in clubs or organizations
Participation in competitions, sports, or cultural activities
How to Frame It:
Connect your extracurriculars to personal growth or academic aspirations.
8. What if my visa is denied?
If your visa is denied, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reason.
Common Reasons for Denial:
Insufficient financial proof
Lack of strong ties to Bangladesh
Inconsistent or unclear answers during the interview
Next Steps:
Address the reason for denial.
Reapply with updated or additional documentation.
Be better prepared for the next interview.
9. How long does the visa process take?
Visa processing usually takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the embassy’s workload.
Apply well in advance of your program start date.
10. Do I need to carry anything specific on the day of the interview?
Dress formally to create a good impression.
Organize all your documents in a folder for easy access.
Arrive at the embassy at least 30 minutes before your appointment.
Final Tips for Success
Be Confident: Speak clearly and make eye contact during the interview.
Stay Organized: Keep all documents in order and accessible.
Show Commitment: Convince the visa officer that you’re genuinely interested in studying and returning to Bangladesh.
Practice Responses: Rehearse common questions to boost your confidence.
Remember, preparation is key to a successful visa interview. Best of luck!
Visa Application Support
Guidance for Bangladeshi students on F-1 visa application and interview preparation.
DS-160 Form Help
Assistance in filling out the DS-160 form accurately for your visa application process.