How to Prepare for the US F-1 Student Visa Interview
Our visa specialists share the most common questions asked at the US Embassy in Kathmandu, how to answer confidently, and what documents to bring on the day.
What to expect at the F-1 visa interview
The US F-1 student visa interview is conducted at the US Embassy in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu. It typically lasts just 2–5 minutes. The visa officer wants to quickly assess whether you are a genuine student who intends to return to Nepal after completing your studies.
The interview is conducted in English. You will speak through a glass partition. Be calm, confident and answer directly.
Documents to bring on the day
- Valid passport and any old passports
- Form I-20 issued by your US university
- DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
- SEVIS fee payment receipt (Form I-901)
- Visa interview appointment confirmation
- Financial documents — bank statements, sponsor affidavit, ITR
- Academic transcripts, certificates and TOEFL/IELTS score report
- Offer letter and admission letter from your university
Most commonly asked questions
- Why do you want to study in the United States?
- Why did you choose this university specifically?
- Why did you choose this particular programme or course?
- How will you fund your education and living costs?
- Who is sponsoring your studies?
- What will you do after completing your degree?
- Do you have family members or friends living in the USA?
- Have you ever been to the USA before?
How to answer effectively
- Answer in short, clear sentences — do not over-explain or volunteer unnecessary information
- Show strong ties to Nepal — mention family, property, future job plans or a family business
- Be confident, make eye contact and speak clearly
- Know your programme details — be ready to explain what you will study and why
- Never say you plan to work or stay in the USA permanently
- If you do not understand a question, politely ask for it to be repeated
Common reasons for F-1 visa rejection
- Insufficient evidence of ties to Nepal — suggesting you might not return
- Weak or inconsistent explanation of why you chose the US and this programme
- Inadequate financial evidence or unexplained large deposits in bank accounts
- Nervousness or contradictory answers during the interview
- Previous visa overstay or immigration violations
💡 Shama Abroad conducts multiple F-1 visa mock interview sessions with every student. We have a strong track record of US visa approvals. Book a free consultation to start preparing.
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