Greatkenny2:
Hello guys.. please what's a service code when paying for your SEVIS fee? I was asked to provide a service code while trying to pay for my SEVIS fee at western union office

Hey 🤠

1. A lazy or impatient person would not be able to pay SEVIS fee on your behalf because the filling of the form needs accuracy that a 1st time payer might find too tasking and another aspect is that not all Western Union outlets understand or accept SEVIS fee payment.

2. Ask your sister to be patient and look out for Western Union outlet with "Quick Pay " Only WU with Quick Pay accepts sevis fee payment and the staffs would be able to guide you appropriately.

3. Google SEVIS fee and click on the first link which will take you to SEVIS website and follow the fee payment instructions. You should see where to fill up SEVIS payment coupon. You must input your sevis I'd number (as written on your form i 20) and your Host-University 's SEVIS CODE in the payment coupon.

4. Number 3 above is a tricky task because you must get the accurate School Code. Some schools with many campuses uses different school codes for each campus. Another aspect is the way you are going to align your school sevis code into the spaces provided in the payment coupon.

5. Your SEVIS number ie “N00” is located in the upper left corner of your Form-120. Your School Code look thus: BOS 214 F 10162000.


Best Wishes 🙏

ultim:

Just a state the truth but give a compelling reason why you need another msc in a different field. Don't make it personal, make it purely professional. Job demands, new position etc

Thank you so much

Hello,

Please does anyone know whether one can apply for two different visa categories in less than a year? I got my B1/B2 and travelled with it less than a year ago. I applied for F1 2 months ago and I’ve not been able to get any date earlier than October. Although I am able to see when early dates are released on the “cancel appointment” page, when I go to the “reschedule” page, all I see is dates from October upwards.

I was wondering if my having a valid B1/B2 is what’s preventing me from seeing early F1 dates. Has anyone experienced this before?

Is it okay to open another cgi profile?

Tmoo:
Hello,

Please does anyone know whether one can apply for two different visa categories in less than a year? I got my B1/B2 and travelled with it less than a year ago. I applied for F1 2 months ago and I’ve not been able to get any date earlier than October. Although I am able to see when early dates are released on the “cancel appointment” page, when I go to the “reschedule” page, all I see is dates from October upwards.

Yes, you can have more than one visa type at a time. Your F-1 approval may depend on how long you spent in your previous travel with the B visa and the length of time between when you came back and when your F-1 interview is scheduled. They'd usually want you to spend some significant amount of time in your home country upon return from your trip, as a sign of "home ties".

Tmoo:

I was wondering if my having a valid B1/B2 is what’s preventing me from seeing early F1 dates. Has anyone experienced this before?

Is it okay to open another cgi profile?

No, your having a valid B visa does not affect your ability to see earlier F1 dates, neither does it prevent you from obtaining an F-1 visa, so long you qualify. It is a common problem for many applicants at the moment who are able to see December dates but can't see the newly released July dates for both Lagos Consulate and Abuja Embassy. It also affects you if you're applying for the second time. Perhaps they may eventually open up dates for everyone else.

No need to open another cgi profile. Use your original account.

mayford:


Yes, you can have more than one visa type at a time. Your F-1 approval may depend on how long you spent in your previous travel with the B visa and the length of time between when you came back and when your F-1 interview is scheduled. They'd usually want you to spend some significant amount of time in your home country upon return from your trip, as a sign of "home ties".

——————
Thank you for clarifying. I spent less than 10days December last year. And I’ve been in Nigeria for over 6months.


No, your having a valid B visa does not affect your ability to see earlier F1 dates, neither does it prevent you from obtaining an F-1 visa, so long you qualify. It is a common problem for many applicants at the moment who are able to see December dates but can't see the newly released July dates for both Lagos Consulate and Abuja Embassy. It also affects you if you're applying for the second time. Perhaps they may eventually open up dates for everyone else.

No need to open another cgi profile. Use your original account.

———
Do you know they have a law against opening another account- a change of email address and a new MRV? Someone in similar shoes was able to open a separate account yesterday and that was when he saw the earlier dates released. He was not able to see early dates previously.

For F2 (spouse) visa applicant, when it comes to the question in DS 160 form "do you have a relation in usa" what would be the response? Should the person say yes or no? I mean will spouse be considered as a relation?

Tmoo:
Hello,

Please does anyone know whether one can apply for two different visa categories in less than a year? I got my B1/B2 and travelled with it less than a year ago. I applied for F1 2 months ago and I’ve not been able to get any date earlier than October. Although I am able to see when early dates are released on the “cancel appointment” page, when I go to the “reschedule” page, all I see is dates from October upwards.

I was wondering if my having a valid B1/B2 is what’s preventing me from seeing early F1 dates. Has anyone experienced this before?

Is it okay to open another cgi profile?

Hey 🤠

1. Your B1-B2 VISA is not affecting your F-1 visa application because you can apply for 2 kinds of VISA within the same year but only one interview would be necessary. Surprisingly, your B1-B2 VISA should springboard your F1-VISA application success but provided that you did not or have never abused your B1-B2 VISA.

2. But be aware that you cannot mix up the B1-B2 and F1-VISA entry regulations all because you have the two at the same time. With both VISAS in your passport ie
if you enter the USA with B1-B2 VISA says Sept 1st and your Host-University in the USA is resuming classes says Sept 5th then you have to return to your country and re enter on F1-VISA.

3. However, very few disciplinarian consulars might likely cancel your B1-B2 VISA when approving your F1-VISA based on the shift in your travel objectives. Do not open a new CGI account.


Best Wishes 🙏

Tmoo:

———
Do you know they have a law against opening another account- a change of email address and a new MRV? Someone in similar shoes was able to open a separate account yesterday and that was when he saw the earlier dates released. He was not able to see early dates previously.

Well, I have no knowledge of that law but there have been cases of people having more than one account and getting error messages on CGI for duplicate account ish because of similar data.

Do what works best for you, but exercise discretion.

Keyin:
For F2 (spouse) visa applicant, when it comes to the question in DS 160 form "do you have a relation in usa" what would be the response? Should the person say yes or no? I mean will spouse be considered as a relation?

Hey 🤠

1. I just looked up the meaning of Relation via Google and it says :

* a person who is connected by blood or marriage; So your respond should be Yes.


Best Wishes 🙏

mayford:


Well, I have no knowledge of that law but there have been cases of people having more than one account and getting error messages on CGI for duplicate account ish because of similar data.

Do what works best for you, but exercise discretion.

I now understand. Better safe than sorry. Thank you so much. 🙏

Thanks

OyoTunjiUSA:


Hey 🤠

1. I just looked up the meaning of Relation via Google and it says :

* a person who is connected by blood or marriage; So your respond should be Yes.


Best Wishes 🙏

Hey,

Yes, you can apply for 2 different visa categories within a year but *YOU CANNOT* hold both visa at the same time.
Keep in mind that, if your F1 is approved, your B1/B2 would be void. But if your F1 is not approved, you may still have your B1/B2 valid. But you cannot hold both at the same time.

Other people have spoken on the cgi profile thing. Not seeing earlier date has nothing to do with your B1/B2. The embassy frowns at having multiple profiles, but some people have gotten away with it using different emails.

You can do a quick research on possibility of holding both F1 and B1/B2 visas at the same time.

Tmoo:
Hello,

Please does anyone know whether one can apply for two different visa categories in less than a year? I got my B1/B2 and travelled with it less than a year ago. I applied for F1 2 months ago and I’ve not been able to get any date earlier than October. Although I am able to see when early dates are released on the “cancel appointment” page, when I go to the “reschedule” page, all I see is dates from October upwards.

I was wondering if my having a valid B1/B2 is what’s preventing me from seeing early F1 dates. Has anyone experienced this before?

Is it okay to open another cgi profile?

adelawry:
Hey,

Yes, you can apply for 2 different visa categories within a year but *YOU CANNOT* hold both visa at the same time.
Keep in mind that, if your F1 is approved, your B1/B2 would be void. But if your F1 is not approved, you still have your B1/B2 valid. But you cannot hold both at the same time.

Other people have spoken on the cgi profile thing. Not seeing earlier date has nothing to do with your B1/B2. The embassy frowns at having multiple profiles, but some people have gotten away with it using different emails.

You can do a quick research on possibility of holding both F1 and B1/B2 visas at the same time.

Not necessarily, they won't have to cancel his B visa if his F-1 is approved. He could travel with either one depending on the trip purpose, e.g. attending a conference in a month's time, when resumption for school is still 5 months away - it'd make perfect sense to use the B visa because it's relevant for that particular trip.

Only in rare cases, such decision lies on the Consular Officer who would cancel the B visa without prejudice (if they believe there's no need to keep the B when the F is already there and no reason would warrant the use of the B visa, especially if applicant's resumption date is so close).

mayford:


Yes, you can have more than one visa type at a time. Your F-1 approval may depend on how long you spent in your previous travel with the B visa and the length of time between when you came back and when your F-1 interview is scheduled. They'd usually want you to spend some significant amount of time in your home country upon return from your trip, as a sign of "home ties".



No, your having a valid B visa does not affect your ability to see earlier F1 dates, neither does it prevent you from obtaining an F-1 visa, so long you qualify. It is a common problem for many applicants at the moment who are able to see December dates but can't see the newly released July dates for both Lagos Consulate and Abuja Embassy. It also affects you if you're applying for the second time. Perhaps they may eventually open up dates for everyone else.

No need to open another cgi profile. Use your original account.

This is another amazing reply from someone who wants to help. Thanks for @mayford and many others helping us on this thread. I'm new to this and still doing research into schools for Spring 2025.

I disagree with what you just said, I know someone recently whose B1 visa was canceled when the F1 was denied. The VO said this to the applicant by saying do you know you can't travel to the US with your B1/B2 anymore because it has been canceled.

mayford:


Not necessarily, they won't have to cancel his B visa if his F-1 is approved. He could travel with either one depending on the trip purpose, e.g. attending a conference in a month's time, when resumption for school is still 5 months away - it'd make perfect sense to use the B visa because it's relevant for that particular trip.

Only in rare cases, such decision lies on the Consular Officer who would cancel the B visa without prejudice (if they believe there's no need to keep the B when the F is already there and no reason would warrant the use of the B visa, especially if applicant's resumption date is so close).

Ajibade105:
I disagree with what you just said, I know someone recently whose B1 visa was canceled when the F1 was denied. The VO said this to the applicant by saying do you know you can't travel to the US with your B1/B2 anymore because it has been canceled.

Hey 🤠

@Ajibade105.

1. I sensored my answer to @Tmoo in order to not create additional panic for him because he was already tensed for not being able to secure F1-VISA appointment.

2. Yes his B1-B2 VISA might be canceled when approving his F1-VISA and at the same time his F1-VISA might be denied and also prompt the consular to cancel his already gotten B1-B2 VISA. So, I agree with you on this but you do not have to explain to this level because it will cause panic for him.

3. However, you have to agree with me and @Maford that you can have both B1-B2 and F1 VISAS at the same time inside your travel passport.


PS: The scenario in sense 2 above does not usually occur and it depend on circumstances.


Best Wishes 🙏

I agree with you but I didn't want to mention that but I think the applicant should be aware of this too (something to know). Not everyone knows this!

The same way most people didn't know they can do adjustment of status in the US when they have a B1/B2 visa. I know people who go this route. Please, don't pm me and ask me how because I will not say anything.

It’s time to keep my mouth shut.

NEXT

OyoTunjiUSA:



Hey 🤠

@Ajibade105.

1. I sensored my answer to @Tmoo in order to not create additional panic for him because he was already tensed for not being able to secure F1-VISA appointment.

2. Yes his B1-B2 VISA might be canceled when approving his F1-VISA and at the same time his F1-VISA might be denied and also prompt the consular to cancel his already gotten B1-B2 VISA. So, I agree with you on this but you do not have to explain to this level because it will cause panic for him.

3. However, you have to agree with me and @Maford that you can have both B1-B2 and F1 VISAS at the same time inside your travel passport.


PS: The scenario in sense 2 above does not usually occur and it depend on circumstances.


Best Wishes 🙏

Scholar212:

To be frank, anyone that has been to Abuja recently and interviewed by her knows chances of approval is very slim. I know of at least three fully funded PhD she has denied. All these minor intracies can't be the reason. The PhD guys have profile intact infact two have been approved on second attempt within two weeks to two months interval of first attempt.

@ Slimszy,

Sorry about your experience but TWoods is right.

At best your response about ur your post study plans n ur background was run-of-the-mill, it won't fly with her n might not necessarily fly with another VO.

I survived that woman, she grilled me for like 15 minutes. You would think I am lieing until I start d timer n narrate the whole thing to you. Same interview everybody will say takes no more than 2-3 minutes. I wasn't funded.

I left feeling as if I had been in a boxing match cos I sure as hell took a lot of punches.

She is not harsh but very thorough, n I commended her for being detailed after d interview to which she nodded n she replied thank you.

@ Scholar212, there is a perception here that your visa is guaranteed so far you have funding, so people tend to relax about d interview but it's not always like that.

Las las, she gave me a white paper for administrative processing, so even me is not yet cleared. Please who knows d likely timeframe for administrative processing but my major problem is how would I be able to drive in the state of Kansas? I only have my naija license which will expire in August? MAKE UNA EP ME

Hello,

I know that you will have to pass a written test and a driving test/road to get a DL. Let me say, don't use your knowledge of driving in 9ja to go take the test without studying the book provided in that state to obtain DL. Here is a link to help you with the info

https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovobtainingdl.html

RealTrump:


@ Slimszy,

Sorry about your experience but TWoods is right.

At best your response about ur your post study plans n ur background was run-of-the-mill, it won't fly with her n might not necessarily fly with another VO.

I survived that woman, she grilled me for like 15 minutes. You would think I am lieing until I start d timer n narrate the whole thing to you. Same interview everybody will say takes no more than 2-3 minutes. I wasn't funded.

I left feeling as if I had been in a boxing match cos I sure as hell took a lot of punches.

She is not harsh but very thorough, n I commended her for being detailed after d interview to which she nodded n she replied thank you.

@ Scholar212, there is a perception here that your visa is guaranteed so far you have funding, so people tend to relax about d interview but it's not always like that.

Las las, she gave me a white paper for administrative processing, so even me is not yet cleared. Please who knows d likely timeframe for administrative processing but my major problem is how would I be able to drive in the state of Kansas? I only have my naija license which will expire in August? MAKE UNA EP ME

Ajibade105:
I disagree with what you just said, I know someone recently whose B1 visa was canceled when the F1 was denied. The VO said this to the applicant by saying do you know you can't travel to the US with your B1/B2 anymore because it has been canceled.

You are welcome to disagree. It's an exchange of opinions but expert opinion is more desirable.

I tell you confidently that one can have both visas valid without cancelation. The discretion to cancel lies solely on the Consular Officer. I encourage you to read the entire statement again to the point where I mentioned Cancelled Without Prejudice (CWOP). You can look it up.

Individual situations do not override general policies. It is a case-by-case basis at the Embassy/Consulate.

And ask the person you know, the reason for the cancellation. He/she knows exactly why their B visa was cancelled despite their F-1 visa being refused. There are many reasons.

I do not want to engage in argumentative analysis of facts. So I won't be responding to this topic any further. Please do your research.

VeeInsider:


This is another amazing reply from someone who wants to help. Thanks for @mayford and many others helping us on this thread. I'm new to this and still doing research into schools for Spring 2025.

Thank you @VeeInsider and thanks for your contributions too.

We're all here to learn and help each other achieve success in our interviews.

RealTrump:


@ Slimszy,

Sorry about your experience but TWoods is right.

At best your response about ur your post study plans n ur background was run-of-the-mill, it won't fly with her n might not necessarily fly with another VO.

I survived that woman, she grilled me for like 15 minutes. You would think I am lieing until I start d timer n narrate the whole thing to you. Same interview everybody will say takes no more than 2-3 minutes. I wasn't funded.

I left feeling as if I had been in a boxing match cos I sure as hell took a lot of punches.

She is not harsh but very thorough, n I commended her for being detailed after d interview to which she nodded n she replied thank you.

@ Scholar212, there is a perception here that your visa is guaranteed so far you have funding, so people tend to relax about d interview but it's not always like that.

Las las, she gave me a white paper for administrative processing, so even me is not yet cleared. Please who knows d likely timeframe for administrative processing but my major problem is how would I be able to drive in the state of Kansas? I only have my naija license which will expire in August? MAKE UNA EP ME

Hey 🤠

1. I like what you pointed out to @Scholar212 but that is not where i am driving at. INA 221(g) in which you have been placed upon is like a young criminal in a remand home who can be released to his parents or transfer to a maximum prison.

2. The average waiting time is within 3 to 60 days but it can become indefinite
expecially if your area of study falls under TAL or your name matched that of a suspect on watch list and USCIS needs to double-check that you are not that person.

3. Therefore, your major problem should not be how to be able to drive in the State of Kansas , but how to have that VISA in your hand.

221g has many background reasons i only gave you 2 tips.


Best Wishes 🙏

OyoTunjiUSA:



Hey 🤠

1. A lazy or impatient person would not be able to pay SEVIS fee on your behalf because the filling of the form needs accuracy that a 1st time payer might find too tasking and another aspect is that not all Western Union outlets understand or accept SEVIS fee payment.

2. Ask your sister to be patient and look out for Western Union outlet with "Bid Pay " Only WU with Bid Pay accepts sevis fee payment and the staffs would be able to guide you appropriately.

3. Google SEVIS fee and click on the first link which will take you to SEVIS website and follow the fee payment instructions. You should see where to fill up SEVIS payment coupon. You must input your sevis I'd number (as written on your form i 20) and your Host-University 's SEVIS CODE in the payment coupon.

4. Number 3 above is a tricky task because you must get the accurate School Code. Some schools with many campuses uses different school codes for each campus. Another aspect is the way you are going to align your school sevis code into the spaces provided in the payment coupon.

5. Your SEVIS number ie “N00” is located in the upper left corner of your Form-120. Your School Code look thus: BOS 214 F 10162000.


Best Wishes 🙏

I appreciate

Hi guys, is it normal for your CGI profile to ask for a change of password when you try to log in into your account.. please who has experienced this? Is this normal

Ajibade105:
Hello,

I know that you will have to pass a written test and a driving test/road to get a DL. Let me say, don't use your knowledge of driving in 9ja to go take the test without studying the book provided in that state to obtain DL. Here is a link to help you with the info

https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovobtainingdl.html

Thanks, the link wouldn't open until I used a VPN. They didn't talk about a scenario for someone with a foreign license tho.

Thank you. I will appreciate other inputs as well.

OyoTunjiUSA:



Hey 🤠

1. I like what you pointed out to @Scholar212 but that is not where i am driving at. INA 221(g) in which you have been placed upon is like a young criminal in a remand home who can be released to his parents or transfer to a maximum prison.

2. The average waiting time is within 3 to 60 days but it can become indefinite
expecially if your area of study falls under TAL or your name matched that of a suspect on watch list and USCIS needs to double-check that you are not that person.

3. Therefore, your major problem should not be how to be able to drive in the State of Kansas , but how to have that VISA in your hand.

221g has many background reasons i only gave you 2 tips.


Best Wishes 🙏

Thanks. I have a fair idea why d application was flagged, will just have to wait for their background checks.

I needed to sort the license issue cos in case it goes my way, I might not have enough time to start obtaining licenses n all.

Greatkenny2:
Hi guys, is it normal for your CGI profile to ask for a change of password when you try to log in into your account.. please who has experienced this? Is this normal

Yes, it's normal.

Happens after a while since your last password change.

mayford:


Yes, it's normal.

Happens after a while since your last password change.

Oh thanks.. so I should go ahead and change the password?