Applicant Background
The applicant previously traveled to the United States in 2018 on an F1 visa to pursue a Master’s degree in Biomedical Science. After completing the program in 2020, the applicant worked in the U.S. under F1 OPT and later on an H1B visa from 2020 to 2025 before returning to India in June 2025.
For Fall 2026, the applicant applied for a fully funded PhD program in Biological and Biomedical Science at a U.S. university.
- Biometrics: Mumbai – 07 April 2026
- Consular Interview: New Delhi – 07 May 2026
- Visa Type: F1 Student Visa
F1 Visa Interview Experience – New Delhi
The applicant had an 8:00 AM interview slot at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi and arrived around 7:30 AM. There was a long queue outside the consulate, and entry was permitted after security checks at approximately 8:15 AM.
After entering the embassy, biometrics were completed again inside the consulate. The applicant was finally called to the interview counter around 9:30 AM.
The interview proceeded as follows:
Visa Officer Interview Questions and Answers
Visa Officer: Why this course and university?
Applicant: I am going to the university because they offer a strong program in biomedical science and have multiple research labs focused on areas that align with my experience and interest in neuroscience.
Visa Officer: Have you worked in the U.S. before?
Applicant: Yes. I first went to the U.S. in 2018 to pursue a Master’s degree in Biomedical Science. After completing the program, I worked in the United States on F1 OPT and later on an H1B visa. I returned to India in June 2025.
Visa Officer: Is your program fully funded?
Applicant: Yes. The PhD program is fully funded. It covers tuition and provides an annual stipend of approximately $3X,XXX. I will manage my living expenses, fees, and health insurance through this stipend.
Visa Officer: Do you feel threatened in India?
Applicant: No.
Visa Officer: Do you feel your life is at risk once you come back to India?
Applicant: No.
Visa Officer: Have you mentioned all your social media handles here, and are they set to public?
Applicant: Yes.
At this stage, the visa officer began preparing a 221(g) slip and informed the applicant that the social media URLs had not been added correctly in the application.
The officer stated:
“You haven’t added your social media URLs here. I have written instructions on this slip, please complete it and submit your passport at the VAC. You don’t have to interview again, your interview is concluded. Have a nice day.”
The applicant printed a separate sheet containing all social media account URLs and submitted it along with the passport and 221(g) slip at the New Delhi VAC on the same day.
CEAC Visa Status Timeline
- 07 May 2026 – Refused
- 08 May 2026 – Approved
- 11 May 2026 – Issued
- 14 May 2026 – Passport Received
Key Takeaways From This F1 Visa Interview Experience
This experience highlights the importance of accurately listing all social media handles and URLs in the DS-160 application form. Even small omissions can result in a temporary 221(g) administrative processing request.
The applicant also emphasized the importance of staying calm during the interview process. Seeing other applicants get rejected nearby can create anxiety, but each interview is evaluated independently.
Mock interviews, confidence, clear communication, and carefully listening to each question can significantly improve the overall interview experience.
If you need expert assistance, contact LeSo.
