I waited for your reply to my message. When is your interview?

Johnolukolade:
.

Please do I need to notarised my sponsor's letter or is his signature enough? I want to send his financial statement to obtain my i-20.

Marjoribanks:
Please do I need to notarised my sponsor's letter or is his signature enough? I want to send his financial statement to obtain my i-20.

Signature is sufficient.

If otherwise, the international office will notify you accordingly.

Is it bad to state that you have a sibling in America? Especially that the sibling has PM, though went there to study initially. Could it be a reason for previous denial even when they never asked if one has any relations in US?

@Brown2Green I sent PM to you boss, I need to talk to you. Thanks

Brown2Green:


Just free the I20 and work on getting a legit SOA.
And be very careful with agencies.

emhenzy:
Is it bad to state that you have a sibling in America? Especially that the sibling has PM, though went there to study initially. Could it be a reason for previous denial even when they never asked if one has any relations in US?

I don't think it is bad. As far as the relative is in status, when asked if you have a relative you can say yes.
Were you denied previously?

This is the time of the year when we read success transcripts.
Congratulations to everyone who have gotten their visa and for those who are going to the embassy soon, i wish you best of luck.

It was just like yesterday when i started my applications last year i got admitted and funding, even with that i was denied visa on December 31, 2018 and then i re-apply and get my visa approved on January 14, 2019 and see me now i am now in Tennessee. I use to encourage people who have gotten denial to never lose hope all you need to do is to prepare better and re apply. You will surely get it by God's grace.

I LOVE YOU ALL NAIRALANDER you are part of my success story.

For those who sent me a pm please mail me on yuscodguy@gmail.com or whatsapp on +2348029791304.
ONE LOVE

JoeBazz:
@Brown2Green I sent PM to you boss, I need to talk to you. Thanks

OK responded

Brown2Green:


Signature is sufficient.

If otherwise, the international office will notify you accordingly.

thank you boss!

Good morning everyone, please I am new and will be needing urgent assistant, I have read the FAQ in terms of USA student visa but I don't how to go about, low confidence becos am not d talking type n I also feel my responses to questions are usually short and also need motivations because it will be my first interview and my interview is next week in lagos, pls how do I practice and I Ve heard about narialand n read lots of good testimonies n I also want to share mine, please I need someone to talk to, motivate me and scold me if need be Dats if am not getting it right n I also believe dat if am put tru d right path n well informed, I will do just fine...thank you as I await your responses....N.B pls I don't also know if where am posting this is the right place, still new here n don't know my way around.

jennybaybee:
Good morning everyone, please I am new and will be needing urgent assistant, I have read the FAQ in terms of USA student visa but I don't how to go about, low confidence becos am not d talking type n I also feel my responses to questions are usually short and also need motivations because it will be my first interview and my interview is next week in lagos, pls how do I practice and I Ve heard about narialand n read lots of good testimonies n I also want to share mine, please I need someone to talk to, motivate me and scold me if need be Dats if am not getting it right n I also believe dat if am put tru d right path n well informed, I will do just fine...thank you as I await your responses....N.B pls I don't also know if where am posting this is the right place, still new here n don't know my way around.

PM me

Middle Tennessee State University
Williams Paterson University

Ufemia26:


Hello house, I graduated with a GPA of 3.62 in bsc biochemistry in 2015 and I have worked as a call center agent in a bank for close to a year plus and still in the job presently. I wanna go back to school to study msc Biotechnology in the US but I lack funding and sponsporship. Recently, I registered to write toefl in july and GRE in November 2019, but don't know the list of schools in the US which offers fully funded scholarships. Please may I have some advise from the gurus in the house?

jennybaybee:
Good morning everyone

Hello.
what program are you going for?

fairheart:
This is commendable! Very short interview. I look forward to seeing more approval this month! God bless you!

, please can I get ur contact to private chat u. Congrats.

vinnyvince:
Visa Approved today at the Abuja Embassy.

Here's an abridged version of my transcriot to K.I.S.S.

VO: Hello
Me: Oh Hi!
VO: I can see you're going for your Doctorate in aerospace engineering at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Me: Thats correct.
VO: Are you married?
Me: Nope, I am single.
VO: Why the Univerisity of Cincinnati?
Me: My choice of schools was based on the Carnegie Classification of Institutes of Higher Education in which UC falls under the Schools with Very High Research activity(R1). I had emailed many profs with similar research interests who work in schools within the R1 list and received interesting replys from the Profs at UC. Also, they have a really strong faculty. Particularly, the first man to land on the moon surface, Neil Armstrong, was a one-time member of the aerospace engineering faculty and helped develop it. The above helped to shape my decision.

VO: **cute smile** Whats your research field about?
Me: oh I am interested in the aerodynamics of airfoils as well as the development of miniaturized satellites--CubeSats in particular.

VO: *smiles* and asks, whats your highest degree qualification?
Me: I currently hold a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering from the University of xxxx where i finished with a first class.

VO: hmm, i can see from your I-20 that you've been offered full scholarships.

Me: That's Correct.

VO: I will be approving your Visa. Please keep your I-20 very safe as you will be needing it at the POE.


I am grateful to God for his grace.

congrats bro. Please can u give yr contact so as to private chat u. Thanks

Please I need a very cogent advice. I applied to up to 8 schools, only 3 gave me admission with no funding except New Haven DAT give 50% scholarship. I have issues with funding as I don't have a sponsor. I have 301 on my GRE and 94 on TOEFL. I want to study Mechanical engineering for my MSC program. Please I need advice on schools I can re- apply to for full funding. Thanks

For all looking at an undergraduate degree, check out Berea College. They give full tuition waiver to all international student's worth up to 150k dollars over the period 4 years.

hayzedd007:
Please I need a very cogent advice. I applied to up to 8 schools, only 3 gave me admission with no funding except New Haven DAT give 50% scholarship. I have issues with funding as I don't have a sponsor. I have 301 on my GRE and 94 on TOEFL. I want to study Mechanical engineering for my MSC program. Please I need advice on schools I can re- apply to for full funding. Thanks

As your fellow engineer, I'll tell you that getting funding for engineering programs are very difficult.

PhD is an easy way out as PhD can be easily funded.

Check out NIU for next fall if you can wait and I will advice you how to get a full tuition waiver.

Brown2Green:


As your fellow engineer, I'll tell you that getting funding for engineering programs are very difficult.

PhD is an easy way out as PhD can be easily funded.

Check out NIU for next fall if you can wait and I will advice you how to get a full tuition waiver.

,I checked them out already ,they don't have PHD program in mechanical engineering. Can I have ur contact to private chat u beta.Regards

SUCCESSFUL VISA INTERVIEW NUGGET TWO

If you complain that this is too long for you to read, I'm afraid to say you're not a student

HERE WE GO! First, I want you to understand I am sharing whatever you read here from personal experience as Study-abroad Consultant and as someone who has many students in my circle. Just take what you know is helpful and leave the rest. I'm going to use many words to explain few things. That is the trick of world's education system!

NOTE that the US embassy wants you to come for interview because they want to see and hear you first before they know you’re eligible for the category of visa you’re seeking. If not, there would be no need for interview. So, in this sense, you are required to prepare to be well seen and heard well.

Your next homework in preparing yourself for a successful F1 visa interview is to be psychologically calm—so that you can be seen (as genuine) and heard by the VO. Effectiveness begins in the mind, not from the documents, or the people you know. You must tackle fear, anxiety, and self-doubt rooted in lack of confidence in your own abilities. If you have never had any major interview or breakthrough a very difficult professional goal in your life, you could be a victim of fear and tension. I remember how I used to avoid eyes contact when I needed to talk to people. But now, a man that's not afraid will look you in the eyes, smiling and able to express exactly what he wants to say. So, the goal is to stand in front of the VO and remain psychologically calm as possible. To achieve this state of mind, especially if you are afraid of your upcoming interview, you may need the following:

ONE: YOU NEED AN INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT.
Get that ready as soon as you can. List all the generic questions you know the VO usually ask during F1 interview. Take each question at a time. What do you think would be ideal to say to a question like, "How did you hear about this school?" Write the response down. It should be moderate, simple and unique according to your academic and career goals. No story! If you find it hard coming up with a fine response, seek for help.

TWO: HAVE YOUR TRANSCRIPT IN YOUR HIPPOCAMPUS
I saw a transcript here last week in which the applicant quoted the VO as saying he did not need to have a prepared transcript for the interview (and visa was granted). How ignorant of the VO! The fact that he/she is a VO does not mean they have absolute understanding of how interview is conducted. Ask the VO if he/she did not prepare for the interview that got him/her the consular job? One of the things that portray a student as “not genuine” in front of a VO is inability to talk well during the interview. Believe me, this is one of the strongest reasons most F1 visas have been refused. The fundamental reason for interview is to check on the student whether he’s genuine or just taking advantage of the F1 visa category to migrate and “Japa” as some persons here would say.

So, how did you pass the exams that got you the first class, or second class upper or lower on your certificate? Because you studied your textbook, of course! Because you studied it and became familiar with the information, you kill the questions related to what you have studied on examination day. Even Presidents of nations prepare transcript for interviews, because they know they could mess up if such is lacking. There is no man that can speak and express himself effectively (especially when tense or under pressure) except the information has been well-stored and familiar with. There are not so many students who have trained their mind to be creative with words and expression when under pressure. Most of us shut down temporary and unable to say what we really desire to say or should say when under pressure and afraid.

So, for a student going for a major interview in a decade, except you really know what to say, you may not be able to say it. You should know what to say. You should know what you want to say based on your unique case ahead of the interview and that is why you need prepared yourself a transcript for the interview. Know it! Review it! Ask yourself questions and answer them about it. If I tell you that you will not be afraid upon citing the consular at the embassy, I may be wrong. Fear and doubt are a part of our existence as human being, and it is okay. Your duty as a student going to get the F1 visa is to rise above them and say what you should say to earn an approval.

I remember a time in 2016. As an advocate for youth education and our role in shaping future society, I was invited to speak at a church with over 100 members. Due to work, I did not get to outline what I will be speaking on, though the pastor sent me a topic my sermon or talk should revolve. I wanted to go on stage without a prepared speech, but when I look at the fact that I need to quote certain bible verses, I changed my mind and prepared heading and sub-heading for the speech. I then read, revise, and read what I will be saying. When I got on stage, with all eyes on me, I greeted the audience and delivered a very motivating speech. Because I had prepared what to say—knowing that the audience is aware of the topic—everything went well. The same is necessary for the F1 visa interview.
Though things may go wrong due to certain things outside our direct control, yet, preparation against possible fear, anxiety and doubt attack attracts success.

Research shows that the hippocampus (a part of the limbic system in the brain where information and memories are retrieved) lags when your mind is under pressure and fear. Now, imagine if you've nothing stored up related to this interview and your fear of “what if I am refused” captured you? This is to say you may not be able to express yourself well; confusion! The consular may think you’re not a genuine student. Though, there is exception for students who stammer.
So, read the transcript from time to time. Get familiar with it. Does that mean cramming? You call it cramming; I call it PREPARATION FOR A MAJOR INTERVIEW—one that is a defining moment for the rest of your career and even life.

IN addition to this, have mock over and over with someone who can assess you. This is as crucial as having the transcript.


THREE: BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
I have seen professionals at the top of their career who have strong self-doubt in themselves. Once you tell them to go achieve something new, they come up with all sort of excuses that, if you trace the root of these excuses, you will find them in lack of confidence. Young, old, educated and uneducated all have issue of personal faith—depends on the level of success we are trying to achieve. You need to tell yourself that if others have done it and get their visas, you can do it, and do it better. A prospective student going for his interview soon told me that this evening. That's confidence!

I broke the chain of my own self-doubt several years ago, when I started reflecting on how strong I have been in the face of difficult situations. You, too, have seen a lot. You need to remind yourself that if you could go through what you've been through, be it your undergraduate education, professional training, personal growth--or whatever, you can also handle this coming interview. Revisit the list of your progresses, academic and professional experiences and endeavours. You have had your own success here and there, although you remember your failures more. So, don't listen to any shallow voice saying you can't have a nice interview and get the visa. Even Bill gate, Warren Buffet or Jeff of Amazon have times they take care of their self-doubt too. Take care of yours too, so you can do things confidently pursue and achieve your heart desires.

You need a lot of “I can do it”; a lot of "I am going to smile in there and talk to the VO”; a lot of "this is what I want for my career, and I'm going to get it." Tell yourself all these positive stuffs to heat up the root of your self-doubt and observe them dry.


FOUR: DRESS WELL & NEAT
I do not have much to say here as "well and neat" have different meaning to each person. But I will recommend you wear something you are comfortable in. Look your best. But mind you, simplicity is the best! Don't dress to the interview like Olosho (smile)


FIVE: HOPE FOR THE BEST; BALANCE YOUR EXPECTATIONS
As a young person, life has taught me that it is erroneous to think everything will always go the way I want. Sometimes, we are victim of circumstances we know nothing of, and that we cannot control—even after we have done our ultimate best!

Do not see the F1 visa as do or die, except you want to experience high blood pressure. If you have done your best, allow things to happen. Exhale all the worries that “what if I am refused” may have induced. What if you’re refused? So? You reapply! What is you’re refused again? You reapply! You don't give up just like that!

But have you also thought of “what if I am one of those good number of students Fairheart saw in his dream that got their visas in 2019? Of course! Think about that too!

This is what I call balanced expectation. Sometimes, life is 50/50! But this does not mean you should follow the erred opinion that what will be will be. No, most times, things be because we make them be. You still need to do your best. Just make sure you balance your expectation. Funny enough, balanced expectation on results we expect from our endeavours induce calm state of mind and boost confidence. Try it and see how all your worries and anxiety will be lifted. This is a magic pill I have used to liberate myself from unnecessary worries and anxiety when pursuing something I badly desire.

A balanced expectation is vital as we go through life and its modus operandi. King Solomon once said there is “factor of time and chances” at the centre of events that occur to every human being in life. Some things will go wrong even when we do the right thing. Some things will go right, even when we make mistakes and mess up. Why? Time and chances! These are forces of fate. You could be refused in May and get the visa in June or July. I always quote a close friend who was refused 8 times and got it the 9th time. I still ask why and what he did wrong during those 8 appearances at the embassy. Just imagine it too!

SIX: LAY YOUR CAUSE BEFORE GOD
This is my last advice for all of you going for F1 this fall. Whether you believe in God or not, there is God. There is God o! And one of His attributes is that, He listens to genuine prayers of those who have faith in Him. I am not trying to motivate you. This is the reality. God hears prayer! So, if you are worried, pray. If you are unsure, pray. If you think you may experience hard luck, pray. If you have stubborn confidence that you will get a visa approval, pray.

A friend told me that each time he fast and pray on a particular thing he wants, door always open. He then said if fasting is not part of the prayer for the request, he hardly see the result. We both laughed. I almost took him for a prayer warrior. But then, I remember Jesus saying in Matthew 17:21 that without fasting and prayer, certain miracle will not happen.

Hey, maybe you should pray and fast too about this favour. Because you may need God's favour or good luck (the secular term for favour) to supplement your preparation. This could be the last thing to do to open the door.

Alright dreamers! I will try and re-post this for Spring 2020 students. Don’t forget, the approval rate will be higher than refusal this year. Keep counting the visas. God bless!

hayzedd007:
,I checked them out already ,they don't have PHD program in mechanical engineering. Can I have ur contact to private chat u beta.Regards

beezee719@gmail.com

fairheart:
SUCCESSFUL VISA INTERVIEW NUGGET TWO If you complain that this is too long for you to read, I'm afraid to say you're not a student

HERE WE GO! First, I want you to understand I am sharing whatever you read here from personal experience as Study-abroad Consultant and as someone who has many students in my circle. Just take what you know is helpful and leave the rest. I'm going to use many words to explain few things. That is the trick of world's education system!

NOTE that the US embassy wants you to come for interview because they want to see and hear you first before they know you’re eligible for the category of visa you’re seeking. If not, there would be no need for interview. So, in this sense, you are required to prepare to be well seen and heard well.

Your next homework in preparing yourself for a successful F1 visa interview is to be psychologically calm—so that you can be seen (as genuine) and heard by the VO. Effectiveness begins in the mind, not from the documents, or the people you know. You must tackle fear, anxiety, and self-doubt rooted in lack of confidence in your own abilities. If you have never had any major interview or breakthrough a very difficult professional goal in your life, you could be a victim of fear and tension. I remember how I used to avoid eyes contact when I needed to talk to people. But now, a man that's not afraid will look you in the eyes, smiling and able to express exactly what he wants to say. So, the goal is to stand in front of the VO and remain psychologically calm as possible. To achieve this state of mind, especially if you are afraid of your upcoming interview, you may need the following:

ONE: YOU NEED AN INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT.
Get that ready as soon as you can. List all the generic questions you know the VO usually ask during F1 interview. Take each question at a time. What do you think would be ideal to say to a question like, "How did you hear about this school?" Write the response down. It should be moderate, simple and unique according to your academic and career goals. No story! If you find it hard coming up with a fine response, seek for help.

TWO: HAVE YOUR TRANSCRIPT IN YOUR HIPPOCAMPUS
I saw a transcript here last week in which the applicant quoted the VO as saying he did not need to have a prepared transcript for the interview (and visa was granted). How ignorant of the VO! The fact that he/she is a VO does not mean they have absolute understanding of how interview is conducted. Ask the VO if he/she did not prepare for the interview that got him/her the consular job? One of the things that portray a student as “not genuine” in front of a VO is inability to talk well during the interview. Believe me, this is one of the strongest reasons most F1 visas have been refused. The fundamental reason for interview is to check on the student whether he’s genuine or just taking advantage of the F1 visa category to migrate and “Japa” as some persons here would say.

So, how did you pass the exams that got you the first class, or second class upper or lower on your certificate? Because you studied your textbook, of course! Because you studied it and became familiar with the information, you kill the questions related to what you have studied on examination day. Even Presidents of nations prepare transcript for interviews, because they know they could mess up if such is lacking. There is no man that can speak and express himself effectively (especially when tense or under pressure) except the information has been well-stored and familiar with. There are not so many students who have trained their mind to be creative with words and expression when under pressure. Most of us shut down temporary and unable to say what we really desire to say or should say when under pressure and afraid.

So, for a student going for a major interview in a decade, except you really know what to say, you may not be able to say it. You should know what to say. You should know what you want to say based on your unique case ahead of the interview and that is why you need prepared yourself a transcript for the interview. Know it! Review it! Ask yourself questions and answer them about it. If I tell you that you will not be afraid upon citing the consular at the embassy, I may be wrong. Fear and doubt are a part of our existence as human being, and it is okay. Your duty as a student going to get the F1 visa is to rise above them and say what you should say to earn an approval.

I remember a time in 2016. As an advocate for youth education and our role in shaping future society, I was invited to speak at a church with over 100 members. Due to work, I did not get to outline what I will be speaking on, though the pastor sent me a topic my sermon or talk should revolve. I wanted to go on stage without a prepared speech, but when I look at the fact that I need to quote certain bible verses, I changed my mind and prepared heading and sub-heading for the speech. I then read, revise, and read what I will be saying. When I got on stage, with all eyes on me, I greeted the audience and delivered a very motivating speech. Because I had prepared what to say—knowing that the audience is aware of the topic—everything went well. The same is necessary for the F1 visa interview.
Though things may go wrong due to certain things outside our direct control, yet, preparation against possible fear, anxiety and doubt attack attracts success.

Research shows that the hippocampus (a part of the limbic system in the brain where information and memories are retrieved) lags when your mind is under pressure and fear. Now, imagine if you've nothing stored up related to this interview and your fear of “what if I am refused” captured you? This is to say you may not be able to express yourself well; confusion! The consular may think you’re not a genuine student. Though, there is exception for students who stammer.
So, read the transcript from time to time. Get familiar with it. Does that mean cramming? You call it cramming; I call it PREPARATION FOR A MAJOR INTERVIEW—one that is a defining moment for the rest of your career and even life.


THREE: BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
I have seen professionals at the top of their career who have strong self-doubt in themselves. Once you tell them to go achieve something new, they come up with all sort of excuses that, if you trace the root of these excuses, you will find them in lack of confidence. Young, old, educated and uneducated all have issue of personal faith—depends on the level of success we are trying to achieve. You need to tell yourself that if others have done it and get their visas, you can do it, and do it better. A prospective student going for his interview soon told me that this evening. That's confidence!

I broke the chain of my own self-doubt several years ago, when I started reflecting on how strong I have been in the face of difficult situations. You, too, have seen a lot. You need to remind yourself that if you could go through what you've been through, be it your undergraduate education, professional training, personal growth--or whatever, you can also handle this coming interview. Revisit the list of your progresses, academic and professional experiences and endeavours. You have had your own success here and there, although you remember your failures more. So, don't listen to any shallow voice saying you can't have a nice interview and get the visa. Even Bill gate, Warren Buffet or Jeff of Amazon have times they take care of their self-doubt too. Take care of yours too, so you can do things confidently pursue and achieve your heart desires.

You need a lot of “I can do it”; a lot of "I am going to smile in there and talk to the VO”; a lot of "this is what I want for my career, and I'm going to get it." Tell yourself all these positive stuffs to heat up the root of your self-doubt and observe them dry.


FOUR: DRESS WELL & NEAT
I do not have much to say here as "well and neat" have different meaning to each person. But I will recommend you wear something you are comfortable in. Look your best. But mind you, simplicity is the best! Don't dress to the interview like Olosho (smile)


FIVE: HOPE FOR THE BEST; BALANCE YOUR EXPECTATIONS
As a young person, life has taught me that it is erroneous to think everything will always go the way I want. Sometimes, we are victim of circumstances we know nothing of, and that we cannot control—even after we have done our ultimate best!

Do not see the F1 visa as do or die, except you want to experience high blood pressure. If you have done your best, allow things to happen. Exhale all the worries that “what if I am refused” may have induced. What if you’re refused? So? You reply! What is you’re refused again? You reapply!

But have you also thought of “what if I am one of those good number of students Fairheart saw in his dream that got their visas in 2019? Of course! Think about that too!

This is what is called balanced expectation. Sometimes, life is 50/50! But this does not mean you should follow the erred opinion that what will be will be. No, most times, things be because we make them be. You still need to do your best. Just make sure you balance your expectation. Funny enough, balanced expectation on results we expect from our endeavours induce calm state of mind and boost confidence. Try it and see how all your worries and anxiety will be lifted. This is a magic pill I have used to liberate myself from unnecessary worries and anxiety when pursuing something I badly desire.

A balanced expectation is vital as we go through life and its modus operandi. King Solomon once said there is “factor of time and chances” at the centre of events that occur to every human being in life. Some things will go wrong even when we do the right thing. Some things will go right, even when we make mistakes and mess up. Why? Time and chances! These are forces of fate. You could be refused in May and get the visa in June or July. I always quote a close friend who was refused 8 times and got it the 9th time. I still ask why and what he did wrong during those 8 times appearances at the embassy. Just imagine it too!

SIX: LAY YOUR CAUSE BEFORE GOD
This is my last advice for all of you going for F1 this fall. Whether you believe in God or not, there is God. There is God o! And one of His attributes is that, He listens to genuine prayers of those who have faith in Him. I am not trying to motivate you. This is the reality. God hears prayer! So, if you are worried, pray. If you are unsure, pray. If you think you may experience hard luck, pray. If you have stubborn confidence that you will get a visa approval, pray.

A friend told me that each time he fast and pray on a particular thing he wants, door always open. He then said if fasting is not part of the prayer for the request, he hardly see the result. We both laughed. I almost took him for a prayer warrior. But then, I remember Jesus saying in Matthew 17:21 that without fasting and prayer, certain miracle will not happen.

Hey, maybe you should pray and fast too about this favour. Because you may need God's favour or good luck (the secular term for favour) to supplement your preparation. This could be the last thing to do to open the door.

Alright dreamers! I will try and re-post this for Spring 2020 students. Don’t forget, the approval rate will be higher than refusal this year. Keep counting the visas. God bless!

Nice one bro

Excellent piece! Thanks for this

fairheart:
SUCCESSFUL VISA INTERVIEW NUGGET TWO

If you complain that this is too long for you to read, I'm afraid to say you're not a student

HERE WE GO! First, I want you to understand I am sharing whatever you read here from personal experience as Study-abroad Consultant and as someone who has many students in my circle. Just take what you know is helpful and leave the rest. I'm going to use many words to explain few things. That is the trick of world's education system!

NOTE that the US embassy wants you to come for interview because they want to see and hear you first before they know you’re eligible for the category of visa you’re seeking. If not, there would be no need for interview. So, in this sense, you are required to prepare to be well seen and heard well.

Your next homework in preparing yourself for a successful F1 visa interview is to be psychologically calm—so that you can be seen (as genuine) and heard by the VO. Effectiveness begins in the mind, not from the documents, or the people you know. You must tackle fear, anxiety, and self-doubt rooted in lack of confidence in your own abilities. If you have never had any major interview or breakthrough a very difficult professional goal in your life, you could be a victim of fear and tension. I remember how I used to avoid eyes contact when I needed to talk to people. But now, a man that's not afraid will look you in the eyes, smiling and able to express exactly what he wants to say. So, the goal is to stand in front of the VO and remain psychologically calm as possible. To achieve this state of mind, especially if you are afraid of your upcoming interview, you may need the following:

ONE: YOU NEED AN INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT.
Get that ready as soon as you can. List all the generic questions you know the VO usually ask during F1 interview. Take each question at a time. What do you think would be ideal to say to a question like, "How did you hear about this school?" Write the response down. It should be moderate, simple and unique according to your academic and career goals. No story! If you find it hard coming up with a fine response, seek for help.

TWO: HAVE YOUR TRANSCRIPT IN YOUR HIPPOCAMPUS
I saw a transcript here last week in which the applicant quoted the VO as saying he did not need to have a prepared transcript for the interview (and visa was granted). How ignorant of the VO! The fact that he/she is a VO does not mean they have absolute understanding of how interview is conducted. Ask the VO if he/she did not prepare for the interview that got him/her the consular job? One of the things that portray a student as “not genuine” in front of a VO is inability to talk well during the interview. Believe me, this is one of the strongest reasons most F1 visas have been refused. The fundamental reason for interview is to check on the student whether he’s genuine or just taking advantage of the F1 visa category to migrate and “Japa” as some persons here would say.

So, how did you pass the exams that got you the first class, or second class upper or lower on your certificate? Because you studied your textbook, of course! Because you studied it and became familiar with the information, you kill the questions related to what you have studied on examination day. Even Presidents of nations prepare transcript for interviews, because they know they could mess up if such is lacking. There is no man that can speak and express himself effectively (especially when tense or under pressure) except the information has been well-stored and familiar with. There are not so many students who have trained their mind to be creative with words and expression when under pressure. Most of us shut down temporary and unable to say what we really desire to say or should say when under pressure and afraid.

So, for a student going for a major interview in a decade, except you really know what to say, you may not be able to say it. You should know what to say. You should know what you want to say based on your unique case ahead of the interview and that is why you need prepared yourself a transcript for the interview. Know it! Review it! Ask yourself questions and answer them about it. If I tell you that you will not be afraid upon citing the consular at the embassy, I may be wrong. Fear and doubt are a part of our existence as human being, and it is okay. Your duty as a student going to get the F1 visa is to rise above them and say what you should say to earn an approval.

I remember a time in 2016. As an advocate for youth education and our role in shaping future society, I was invited to speak at a church with over 100 members. Due to work, I did not get to outline what I will be speaking on, though the pastor sent me a topic my sermon or talk should revolve. I wanted to go on stage without a prepared speech, but when I look at the fact that I need to quote certain bible verses, I changed my mind and prepared heading and sub-heading for the speech. I then read, revise, and read what I will be saying. When I got on stage, with all eyes on me, I greeted the audience and delivered a very motivating speech. Because I had prepared what to say—knowing that the audience is aware of the topic—everything went well. The same is necessary for the F1 visa interview.
Though things may go wrong due to certain things outside our direct control, yet, preparation against possible fear, anxiety and doubt attack attracts success.

Research shows that the hippocampus (a part of the limbic system in the brain where information and memories are retrieved) lags when your mind is under pressure and fear. Now, imagine if you've nothing stored up related to this interview and your fear of “what if I am refused” captured you? This is to say you may not be able to express yourself well; confusion! The consular may think you’re not a genuine student. Though, there is exception for students who stammer.
So, read the transcript from time to time. Get familiar with it. Does that mean cramming? You call it cramming; I call it PREPARATION FOR A MAJOR INTERVIEW—one that is a defining moment for the rest of your career and even life.


THREE: BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
I have seen professionals at the top of their career who have strong self-doubt in themselves. Once you tell them to go achieve something new, they come up with all sort of excuses that, if you trace the root of these excuses, you will find them in lack of confidence. Young, old, educated and uneducated all have issue of personal faith—depends on the level of success we are trying to achieve. You need to tell yourself that if others have done it and get their visas, you can do it, and do it better. A prospective student going for his interview soon told me that this evening. That's confidence!

I broke the chain of my own self-doubt several years ago, when I started reflecting on how strong I have been in the face of difficult situations. You, too, have seen a lot. You need to remind yourself that if you could go through what you've been through, be it your undergraduate education, professional training, personal growth--or whatever, you can also handle this coming interview. Revisit the list of your progresses, academic and professional experiences and endeavours. You have had your own success here and there, although you remember your failures more. So, don't listen to any shallow voice saying you can't have a nice interview and get the visa. Even Bill gate, Warren Buffet or Jeff of Amazon have times they take care of their self-doubt too. Take care of yours too, so you can do things confidently pursue and achieve your heart desires.

You need a lot of “I can do it”; a lot of "I am going to smile in there and talk to the VO”; a lot of "this is what I want for my career, and I'm going to get it." Tell yourself all these positive stuffs to heat up the root of your self-doubt and observe them dry.


FOUR: DRESS WELL & NEAT
I do not have much to say here as "well and neat" have different meaning to each person. But I will recommend you wear something you are comfortable in. Look your best. But mind you, simplicity is the best! Don't dress to the interview like Olosho (smile)


FIVE: HOPE FOR THE BEST; BALANCE YOUR EXPECTATIONS
As a young person, life has taught me that it is erroneous to think everything will always go the way I want. Sometimes, we are victim of circumstances we know nothing of, and that we cannot control—even after we have done our ultimate best!

Do not see the F1 visa as do or die, except you want to experience high blood pressure. If you have done your best, allow things to happen. Exhale all the worries that “what if I am refused” may have induced. What if you’re refused? So? You reapply! What is you’re refused again? You reapply! You don't give up just like that!

But have you also thought of “what if I am one of those good number of students Fairheart saw in his dream that got their visas in 2019? Of course! Think about that too!

This is what I call balanced expectation. Sometimes, life is 50/50! But this does not mean you should follow the erred opinion that what will be will be. No, most times, things be because we make them be. You still need to do your best. Just make sure you balance your expectation. Funny enough, balanced expectation on results we expect from our endeavours induce calm state of mind and boost confidence. Try it and see how all your worries and anxiety will be lifted. This is a magic pill I have used to liberate myself from unnecessary worries and anxiety when pursuing something I badly desire.

A balanced expectation is vital as we go through life and its modus operandi. King Solomon once said there is “factor of time and chances” at the centre of events that occur to every human being in life. Some things will go wrong even when we do the right thing. Some things will go right, even when we make mistakes and mess up. Why? Time and chances! These are forces of fate. You could be refused in May and get the visa in June or July. I always quote a close friend who was refused 8 times and got it the 9th time. I still ask why and what he did wrong during those 8 appearances at the embassy. Just imagine it too!

SIX: LAY YOUR CAUSE BEFORE GOD
This is my last advice for all of you going for F1 this fall. Whether you believe in God or not, there is God. There is God o! And one of His attributes is that, He listens to genuine prayers of those who have faith in Him. I am not trying to motivate you. This is the reality. God hears prayer! So, if you are worried, pray. If you are unsure, pray. If you think you may experience hard luck, pray. If you have stubborn confidence that you will get a visa approval, pray.

A friend told me that each time he fast and pray on a particular thing he wants, door always open. He then said if fasting is not part of the prayer for the request, he hardly see the result. We both laughed. I almost took him for a prayer warrior. But then, I remember Jesus saying in Matthew 17:21 that without fasting and prayer, certain miracle will not happen.

Hey, maybe you should pray and fast too about this favour. Because you may need God's favour or good luck (the secular term for favour) to supplement your preparation. This could be the last thing to do to open the door.

Alright dreamers! I will try and re-post this for Spring 2020 students. Don’t forget, the approval rate will be higher than refusal this year. Keep counting the visas. God bless!

Goodmorning Guys, i am posting this here because my journey started from nairaland, the lessons gathered were priceless and i am indeed grateful to be a part of this forum. So this happened recentl. DONT FORGET TO APPLY TO SULROSS STATE UNIVERSITY as well,its a great school!

https://ynaija.com/winning-nigerian-international-mba-student-abiola-orimolade-breaks-university-record-in-the-u-s/

And here is my interview with Bellanaija

https://www.bellanaija.com/2019/05/bn-celebrates-academic-excellence-abiola-orimolade/

Thank you to Omoluabi, who helped me out with my transcript and to my very good friend back then Dupsy who was my mock colleague but now abroad life don make her forget me, i miss our old times sha lol.

I wish everyone here all the very best, i hope my story will inspire you too not to give up!

Happy mothers day!

Brown2Green:

beezee719@gmail.com

Boss!!! I will send you as well.

hayzedd007:
Please I need a very cogent advice. I applied to up to 8 schools, only 3 gave me admission with no funding except New Haven DAT give 50% scholarship. I have issues with funding as I don't have a sponsor. I have 301 on my GRE and 94 on TOEFL. I want to study Mechanical engineering for my MSC program. Please I need advice on schools I can re- apply to for full funding. Thanks

I think you need to figure out why a lot of schools turn u down first.

8 applications r quite a lot. Your test scores were average but they r adequate. Can u share your CGPA? If your undergraduate CGPA was tight, the only other thing we can blame is your SOP n LOR, relevant software or experience.

Can u handle softwares like MATLAB, ORIGIN and ABAQUS? You don't hv to master them before u sneak them into your CV (ask d Indians n Chinese). The Indians n Chinese don't only claim knowledge of things they can't fully do, their overall presentation is usually neat. They also spend money getting people to Behind up their application. Even your CV might not have been worded properly.

Did your recommenders wrote great stuffs or did they just wrote a few lines?

The most important document in my opinion is your SOP. was it well articulated or will they have a hard day deciphering what u wrote because of grammar n punctuation usage? If I am to make a guess, your SOP is probably the biggest culprit.

Find out what the problem is first.

AgreatMan:


I think you need to figure out why a lot of schools turn u down first.

8 applications r quite a lot. Your test scores were average but they r adequate. Can u share your CGPA? If your undergraduate CGPA was tight, the only other thing we can blame is your SOP n LOR, relevant software or experience.

Can u handle softwares like MATLAB, ORIGIN and ABAQUS? You don't hv to master them before u sneak them into your CV (ask d Indians n Chinese). The Indians n Chinese don't only claim knowledge of things they can't fully do, their overall presentation is usually neat. They also spend money getting people to Behind up their application. Even your CV might not have been worded properly.

Did your recommenders wrote great stuffs or did they just wrote a few lines?

The most important document in my opinion is your SOP. was it well articulated or will they have a hard day deciphering what u wrote because of grammar n punctuation usage? If I am to make a guess, your SOP is probably the biggest culprit.

Find out what the problem is first.

Regardless of all these stated, it is still difficult getting funds for MSc Engineering

Bro, Thanks for this


SUCCESSFUL VISA INTERVIEW NUGGET TWO[/b]

If you complain that this is too long for you to read, I'm afraid to say you're not a student

HERE WE GO! First, I want you to understand I am sharing whatever you read here from personal experience as Study-abroad Consultant and as someone who has many students in my circle. Just take what you know is helpful and leave the rest. I'm going to use many words to explain few things. That is the trick of world's education system!

NOTE that the US embassy wants you to come for interview because they want to see and hear you first before they know you’re eligible for the category of visa you’re seeking. If not, there would be no need for interview. So, in this sense, you are required to prepare to be well seen and heard well.

Your next homework in preparing yourself for a successful F1 visa interview is to be psychologically calm—so that you can be seen (as genuine) and heard by the VO. Effectiveness begins in the mind, not from the documents, or the people you know. You must tackle fear, anxiety, and self-doubt rooted in lack of confidence in your own abilities. If you have never had any major interview or breakthrough a very difficult professional goal in your life, you could be a victim of fear and tension. I remember how I used to avoid eyes contact when I needed to talk to people. But now, a man that's not afraid will look you in the eyes, smiling and able to express exactly what he wants to say. So, the goal is to stand in front of the VO and remain psychologically calm as possible. To achieve this state of mind, especially if you are afraid of your upcoming interview, you may need the following:

ONE: YOU NEED AN INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT.
Get that ready as soon as you can. List all the generic questions you know the VO usually ask during F1 interview. Take each question at a time. What do you think would be ideal to say to a question like, "How did you hear about this school?" Write the response down. It should be moderate, simple and unique according to your academic and career goals. No story! If you find it hard coming up with a fine response, seek for help.

TWO: HAVE YOUR TRANSCRIPT IN YOUR HIPPOCAMPUS
I saw a transcript here last week in which the applicant quoted the VO as saying he did not need to have a prepared transcript for the interview (and visa was granted). How ignorant of the VO! The fact that he/she is a VO does not mean they have absolute understanding of how interview is conducted. Ask the VO if he/she did not prepare for the interview that got him/her the consular job? One of the things that portray a student as “not genuine” in front of a VO is inability to talk well during the interview. Believe me, this is one of the strongest reasons most F1 visas have been refused. The fundamental reason for interview is to check on the student whether he’s genuine or just taking advantage of the F1 visa category to migrate and “Japa” as some persons here would say.

So, how did you pass the exams that got you the first class, or second class upper or lower on your certificate? Because you studied your textbook, of course! Because you studied it and became familiar with the information, you kill the questions related to what you have studied on examination day. Even Presidents of nations prepare transcript for interviews, because they know they could mess up if such is lacking. There is no man that can speak and express himself effectively (especially when tense or under pressure) except the information has been well-stored and familiar with. There are not so many students who have trained their mind to be creative with words and expression when under pressure. Most of us shut down temporary and unable to say what we really desire to say or should say when under pressure and afraid.

So, for a student going for a major interview in a decade, except you really know what to say, you may not be able to say it. You should know what to say. You should know what you want to say based on your unique case ahead of the interview and that is why you need prepared yourself a transcript for the interview. Know it! Review it! Ask yourself questions and answer them about it. If I tell you that you will not be afraid upon citing the consular at the embassy, I may be wrong. Fear and doubt are a part of our existence as human being, and it is okay. Your duty as a student going to get the F1 visa is to rise above them and say what you should say to earn an approval.

I remember a time in 2016. As an advocate for youth education and our role in shaping future society, I was invited to speak at a church with over 100 members. Due to work, I did not get to outline what I will be speaking on, though the pastor sent me a topic my sermon or talk should revolve. I wanted to go on stage without a prepared speech, but when I look at the fact that I need to quote certain bible verses, I changed my mind and prepared heading and sub-heading for the speech. I then read, revise, and read what I will be saying. When I got on stage, with all eyes on me, I greeted the audience and delivered a very motivating speech. Because I had prepared what to say—knowing that the audience is aware of the topic—everything went well. The same is necessary for the F1 visa interview.
Though things may go wrong due to certain things outside our direct control, yet, preparation against possible fear, anxiety and doubt attack attracts success.

Research shows that the hippocampus (a part of the limbic system in the brain where information and memories are retrieved) lags when your mind is under pressure and fear. Now, imagine if you've nothing stored up related to this interview and your fear of “what if I am refused” captured you? This is to say you may not be able to express yourself well; confusion! The consular may think you’re not a genuine student. Though, there is exception for students who stammer.
So, read the transcript from time to time. Get familiar with it. Does that mean cramming? You call it cramming; I call it PREPARATION FOR A MAJOR INTERVIEW—one that is a defining moment for the rest of your career and even life.

IN addition to this, have mock over and over with someone who can assess you. This is as crucial as having the transcript.


THREE: BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
I have seen professionals at the top of their career who have strong self-doubt in themselves. Once you tell them to go achieve something new, they come up with all sort of excuses that, if you trace the root of these excuses, you will find them in lack of confidence. Young, old, educated and uneducated all have issue of personal faith—depends on the level of success we are trying to achieve. You need to tell yourself that if others have done it and get their visas, you can do it, and do it better. A prospective student going for his interview soon told me that this evening. That's confidence!

I broke the chain of my own self-doubt several years ago, when I started reflecting on how strong I have been in the face of difficult situations. You, too, have seen a lot. You need to remind yourself that if you could go through what you've been through, be it your undergraduate education, professional training, personal growth--or whatever, you can also handle this coming interview. Revisit the list of your progresses, academic and professional experiences and endeavours. You have had your own success here and there, although you remember your failures more. So, don't listen to any shallow voice saying you can't have a nice interview and get the visa. Even Bill gate, Warren Buffet or Jeff of Amazon have times they take care of their self-doubt too. Take care of yours too, so you can do things confidently pursue and achieve your heart desires.

You need a lot of “I can do it”; a lot of "I am going to smile in there and talk to the VO”; a lot of "this is what I want for my career, and I'm going to get it." Tell yourself all these positive stuffs to heat up the root of your self-doubt and observe them dry.


FOUR: DRESS WELL & NEAT
I do not have much to say here as "well and neat" have different meaning to each person. But I will recommend you wear something you are comfortable in. Look your best. But mind you, simplicity is the best! Don't dress to the interview like Olosho (smile)


FIVE: HOPE FOR THE BEST; BALANCE YOUR EXPECTATIONS
As a young person, life has taught me that it is erroneous to think everything will always go the way I want. Sometimes, we are victim of circumstances we know nothing of, and that we cannot control—even after we have done our ultimate best!

Do not see the F1 visa as do or die, except you want to experience high blood pressure. If you have done your best, allow things to happen. Exhale all the worries that “what if I am refused” may have induced. What if you’re refused? So? You reapply! What is you’re refused again? You reapply! You don't give up just like that!

But have you also thought of “what if I am one of those good number of students Fairheart saw in his dream that got their visas in 2019? Of course! Think about that too!

This is what I call balanced expectation. Sometimes, life is 50/50! But this does not mean you should follow the erred opinion that what will be will be. No, most times, things be because we make them be. You still need to do your best. Just make sure you balance your expectation. Funny enough, balanced expectation on results we expect from our endeavours induce calm state of mind and boost confidence. Try it and see how all your worries and anxiety will be lifted. This is a magic pill I have used to liberate myself from unnecessary worries and anxiety when pursuing something I badly desire.

A balanced expectation is vital as we go through life and its modus operandi. King Solomon once said there is “factor of time and chances” at the centre of events that occur to every human being in life. Some things will go wrong even when we do the right thing. Some things will go right, even when we make mistakes and mess up. Why? Time and chances! These are forces of fate. You could be refused in May and get the visa in June or July. I always quote a close friend who was refused 8 times and got it the 9th time. I still ask why and what he did wrong during those 8 appearances at the embassy. Just imagine it too!

SIX: LAY YOUR CAUSE BEFORE GOD
This is my last advice for all of you going for F1 this fall. Whether you believe in God or not, there is God. There is God o! And one of His attributes is that, He listens to genuine prayers of those who have faith in Him. I am not trying to motivate you. This is the reality. God hears prayer! So, if you are worried, pray. If you are unsure, pray. If you think you may experience hard luck, pray. If you have stubborn confidence that you will get a visa approval, pray.

A friend told me that each time he fast and pray on a particular thing he wants, door always open. He then said if fasting is not part of the prayer for the request, he hardly see the result. We both laughed. I almost took him for a prayer warrior. But then, I remember Jesus saying in Matthew 17:21 that without fasting and prayer, certain miracle will not happen.

Hey, maybe you should pray and fast too about this favour. Because you may need God's favour or good luck (the secular term for favour) to supplement your preparation. This could be the last thing to do to open the door.

Alright dreamers! I will try and re-post this for Spring 2020 students. Don’t forget, the approval rate will be higher than refusal this year. Keep counting the visas. God bless!
[/quote]

Really appreciate

Pls does that mean aside the $220 for ECA i will pay $85 for courier delivery? I thought they were meant to send to IRCC and then send me a soft copy?
Pls your response will be highly appreciated.

UzzyBreeze:


Yes! Your copy will be shipped to you.

AgreatMan:


I believe location plays a part. Abuja is a lot more Behind than Lagos, d VOs will not scrutinize people as much as they would Lagos. They might believe those students r a gathering of "big boys n girls." For instance, Abuja police are a lot more respectful because they don't know who is who. My point is, a VO who lives in a relaxed n noiseless environment, Who is not stuck in traffic before getting home will be more lenient than what could be expected of Lagos. The Abuja embassy is in a serene environment with no cars flying here n there, that of Lagos is basically in d middle of a "market." Little things counts too. Everybody dey shine their eyes for Lagos, VOs inclusive.

If your argument is strong, location means nothing.

What a comic relief! Baba you're spreading fallacy here. Success is when opportunity meets preparedness. Location doesn't matter once you fail to do your home work. VOs don't care who is who except you have a diplomatic fiat.

Brown2Green:


Regardless of all these stated, it is still difficult getting funds for MSc Engineering

If engineering guys are saying funding is hard, what do u want people in arts and commercial sciences to say?

My post was based on why he didn't get more admissions n not necessarily on funding. U have to be admitted first b4 funding.