₦airaland Forum

Your school in the US is in best position to suggest how money could be transferred. Please contact the centre for international students at your school. I am sure they will guide you. That's where you'll get the answer, not here.

uniquefurlife:
Hello house someone with useful information should pls respond. What's the best method your family back in naija can pay your tuition to your school in the US if you are not travelling with it for security reasons?

Where are you in Nigeria? If you are in Lagos, let me know.

Fatty16:
Hello, i want to write sat exam next year march but i dont know where to register for it and also for tutorial.

Congratulations! Glad you took your time to do the needful. As we have said here time and again, practicing the transcript, getting familiar with it or storing what to say in your memory prior interview helps (couple with other factors). I also like that you did not see it as do or die. I am sure you went in cool, calm and collected.

slamcole:
Good afternoon here. Visa approved today at the US consulate in Abuja this morning. Here's my transcript

ME: Good morning ma'am (with a wry smile)
VO: passport and 1-20 please.


VO: why USM
ME: It is classified as a R1 institution by the Carnegie foundation. And the Biological Science department has a diverse approach to their graduate program where researches provide solutions to problems affecting one health

VO: number of schools applied to
ME: 3. I named them.

VO: Why the choice of USM
ME: Aside from the fact that I got a GA, there's also am ongoing research in the lab of Prof **** which is in line with my background as a veterinarian.(not sure I mentioned the scope of the research)

VO; Do you have a letter from the school indicating the funding offered.
ME: YES. Gave it to her

VO: What similarities are there between your background as a vet and molecular biology
ME: As a practicing Vet, an added Knowledge of molecular biology will not only help me better diagnose animal diseases but also develop preventive and curative approaches to the disease, with emphasis on zoonotic diseases.

VO: Plan after graduation
ME: Upon completion of the MSC, I'll have acquired adequate research knowledge, and practical exposure as to enable me pick up a faculty position made available to best graduating students like me from my alma matter upon my return to Nigeria.

VO: Travelled out of the country before.
ME: No I've had no reason to go out of Nigeria

VO: Do you have any relatives or siblings in the US
ME: no I don't

VO: Congratulations, I'll be approving your visa

Things I ensured
1. I ensured I cleared my mind of the interview worried the previous day and assured myself it's not a do or die affair

2. I practiced multiple times in front of the mirror and also with individuals. As a fast speaker, I ensured I learnt the art of clearly stating my statements

3. Upon arrival at the venue, I interacted with people and get to know few.

4. As previously advised(dont know how true), applicants are been monitored upon entrance into the premises for appearance, posture and gestures that could make them look not confident or jittery. So I ensured I maintained a bossy outlook (even when I'm not), ensured my hands were at akimbo and also did not lower my gaze.

5. It's advised to find a way of putting one's strongest point very early in the interview process. As in my case, the VO did not even bother to check for any information on my 1-20 nor did she ask if I got funding until I made mention of it.

6. Lastly as it has been mentioned here, do not forget the GOD factor.


I hope this helps someone.

No problem!

Ogunwandetosin:
Can I also pm u sir?

With rare exceptions, visa applicants temporarily visiting Canada should apply at the U.S. Consular Section in their country of residence. If the applicant is not a resident of Canada, interviewing officers at the U.S. Consular Sections in Canada may not have experience in evaluating the circumstances in the applicant's country of residence. The applicant will, therefore, have greater difficulty establishing eligibility for a U.S. visa in Canada than would be experienced in the applicant's home country.

A substantial percentage of visitors to Canada are denied visas under these circumstances. Consequently, we strongly urge visitors to Canada to apply for U.S. visas in their country of residence.

Ubah1:
Who says it's a must you apply from your home country ? Don't want to go into this now but not a must.

...

Someone once told me the SEVIS fee now go beyond the previously stated 12-month validity period. I still haven't been able to verify how true it is. It appear this is true, at least based on what you said in your initial post. In this case, don't stress yourself. Book your appointment and prepare for the interview.

jerrypeacelinks:
Thanks for your response. I stated on my earlier post that I paid the SEVIS fee on the 2nd of November, 2017. The SEVIS ID of my new i20 my school issued me presently is same with that of the one they issued last year and that is restricting me from generating a new coupon/ making a new SEVIS payment. I believe the former payment is supposed to be expired but why it still shows PAID on the I901 website is my worry as it ain't allowing me Pay my SEVIS

Alright. Easy. Count the date. When did you pay the SEVIS fee? (Date) Actually, you may not need another sevis fee payment, especially if it has not expired and if sevis number has not changed.

jerrypeacelinks:
Please House, I have a challenge. Don't know if anyone has come across someone with same or similar case as this before.

Here is my issue.
I was previously delayed last year December 2017 and I deferred my admission till Spring 2019. (I paid my SEVIS last year 2nd of November, 2017).

Now my new i20 has arrived but I noticed it has same SEVIS number as I had Last Year. Now on th SEVIS I901 website, they are refusing me from making a fresh SEVIS payment stating the following message:

The information you provided matches payment records already in the system. A new payment may not be required.

We can only accept Check, Money Order or Western Union for your I-901 Fee.


I am confused and stuck as I am hearing sevis expires in a year but yet mine is saying I already having a payment matched in the system.

The SEVIS I901 website after showing an error/ refusal message popping up the screen asked me to mail them for Payment Verification on one email address like that which I have also done and they are yet to reply for over 4 days now.


Who has an idea what else I can do as that's the only thing delaying me from scheduling for an interview and available dates already show January 15th or so. (though I want to book for expedient appointment when I eventually book).

Thank you.

You should elaborate. And let's see the info you've got! We are talking about someone who has Canada tourist visa.

Ubah1:
Who says it's a must you apply from your home country ? Don't want to go into this now but not a must.

The principal applicant should have scheduled the appointment with you. An F2 visa is a dependent for F1 visa. So, may I ask: who is the principal applicant with the F1 (I-20)?? Has the principal applicant gotten his F1 Visa?

Oluwatoyinakinb:
Hello I need help on what to prepare for I am applying for F2 visa,what are the likely questions I might encounter at the embassy and do I have somebody who have gone for this and the visa was granted.pls contact me.

Hey! You must apply from your home country. I got your message and have replied. Happy Sunday!

LolaCole1:
Hello, please is it possible to apply for F1 US visa while visiting canada?

You are are afraid and nervous because of your perception of the interview. You think about it as a MUST! That is wrong. Free yourself from the belief that you could be denied and that it will hurt you a lot. Your present fear also shows fear of tomorrow--that what if what had happened to some people here happens to you. American visa is not do or die. I advie you to stand stand in front of the mirror and watch yourself as you conduct the interview. Ask yourself the questions and answer them. What is the expression on your face? If this is your first time, the fear may go in with you; however, if you have prepared very well as you have said, you should be able to deliver well--even under the "pressure of what may be."

Jpoppins:
Good morning guys , please my interview is on Tuesday and I’ve been practicing hard . I feel prepared , and can answer any question I’m asked but my problem is tension , nervousness and fear . Please how can I get myself to relax during the interview , i don’t want my voice to be shaky and appear nervous. I really want to be calm , doesn’t anyone have tips on what I can do or even take to be calm ?

Ask yourself first: Why did I choose East Tennessee State University over other schools I applied to?
This will help you get personal response to that question. Once you come up with a response, we can then help you refine it.
Good luck!

ollypapi:
please house, I need convincing points on why I choose East Tennessee state university.
who can help pls do help

It will. Don't take such i-20 to embassy. Better get accepted for your original program.

ajayiolatunb:
Please house, I need your opinion on this, if a school issued me a language training/program i20 because I didn't meet the criteria for their English language requirements, can this affect my chances of getting my visa during my interview. Please I need your opinion..

Dear, you have a chance.

tamaratare:
Hello everyone,

I'm a graduate from a school of nursing, and I'm planning on applying to a college in Texas for nursing still. My TOEFL score is 73. Please what are my chances of getting a visa? Thanks

Start by looking for schools. Decide which program you would like to study, and how much you are willing to spend on the program. Gather supporting documents for the application, write standardize exams where necessary, get accepted, prepare for your interview. It is a step by step journey.

Necksonnel:
Pls am new here, I want to apply for USA student visa. How do I start and how much does it cost. Can someone give me some idea, please

The VO who interviewed you must be out of touch with the reality! People can have as many Bsc, BA, MA as much as their career plan require. But consider the advice and try get a master's admission.

wasiudvd:
I have just been refused Visa, despite that I have paid half of my tuition fee, after subtracting the scholarship grant.
His reason, I. Should not go for another undergraduate programme since I am already a graduate.
Another filed o.
Make I first go start the process of getting my money back.

Check the open letter you put up. You stated 2017 there.

AARasheed:
it is 2018.

Did you say you went for interview n 2017? huh

AARasheed:
Hello house, i posted about my experience yesterdsy and my status still says refused. i have made a post detailing my experience oo. Biko help comment so it would be moved to FP. Dont't let us continue with this injustice,

https://www.nairaland.com/4873436/open-letter-usa-embassy-abuja

Nobody can say for sure what the embassy saw and use as a basis for the later refusal. It could be inadequate fund as you suggested. More so, you should have given the VO both statements instead of just Dad's personal account. Well, previous refusal does not mean a permanent refusal. You can still reapply, and you can still get it. Sometimes, the superiors within are the one making this decision. You can reapply. You should not worry about what could have caused the former refusal after being placed on AP. My advice for you is that, focus on the next interview.

Trust me, if there is anything serious that caused the previous refusal, the VO interviewing you next week will likely reference it. So, focus on delivering well on the next interview as you did first. Let us hope for another chance. Good luck. Put the worry away for now.

Jpoppins:
please I’m still waiting for response o helpppp

For Lagos: First Available Appointment Is Monday January 7, 2019.
For Abuja: First Available Appointment Is Monday January 7, 2019.

lextube:
Good day,

I was just denied visa today, and I want to refire ASAP because my masters program is starting on the 28th of January next year. I want to know if anybody can inform me whether there are still bookings left for the month of December so that I can go and pay another visa tomorrow to reapply immediately.

Thank you very much.

For Lagos: First Available Appointment Is Monday January 7, 2019.
For Abuja: First Available Appointment Is Monday January 7, 2019.

You should send the scratch card by email along with your WES account details. [quote author=AmaSophy post=73390260][/quote]

Yes watching like bald eagle.

doublezero7:
I think it is interesting how things are at the embassy. After the grilling, it is impossible to now decide after some hours that the person isn't eligible without contacting the bank.

All things being equal, we will keenly be watching.

Yes, embarrassing. I am even angry!

doublezero7:
Hopefully it is a system error bro. The issue is just embarrassing to even talk about.

In other word, this thread could be under monitoring. My intuition has been pressing on this for about 3 days now. But I am not saying this is the reason for back-door refusal as we can call what some students are experiencing right now. I strongly believe it is system error. Imagine a lady who was refused recently and on her profile there is "your passport is still with us"...passport they never really took from her in the first place. Maybe they need to change their client, that is, the GCI. It is messing up! And it is annoying!

100kobo:
It appears Abuja embassy is becoming a scare and a no-go area for visa interviews. This is so unprofessional of them- doling out White Papers and going behind the scene to act the opposite.

Let's watch and see how all these will pan out in the end. 3 "refusals" in quick succession. Hopefully, it turns out to be a glitch as witnessed by a member here few days ago.

The embassy--when they actually want to verify a bank statement--doesn't contact the branch the statement is issued; they contact the bank headquarters. I am talking from insider's knowledge of how they do this. For your visa to show refused, it must have been system error. When you go pick your passport tomorrow, there will be visa on it. Don't stress your peace!

doublezero7:
Okay. So I just checked my status and it says refused.

My mom's account officer is sure the embassy did not contact the bank.

Can someone kindly explain what in God's name is happening, please!

Don't conclude so soon. This could be system error as it once happened to a student here last week. But if it is actually refused, be strong and try again.

aduku1:
My visa status just changed to refused just few hours After been granted visa and waiting for account verification. Very Sad

Well, I cannot confirm whether or not there is GPA requirement. To be sure, please visit the agency in Lagos or Abuja. It isn't that far from the US embassy. The $200 is mainly for membership. With the $200 you are eligible to use EducationUSA computers, library, access direct link to some scholarships your academic profile may be eligible for, and you will be able to network with students from top universities in the country, and even a few who come from US and Canada, etc to get their Master's/undergraduate admission through the agency. The membership certainly comes with a lot of opportunity you'll get to know and explore once you are registered. For the exams, you are required to pay for everything, including your WES, etc. I would encourage you to visit them one of those Wednesdays.

Good luck in your endeavours.

aywhy93:
Thanks a lot for the information. Please, I have few questions to ask.

About the age limit, I'm within and eligible to register. But I saw someone who said they only register students with gpa of 4.0 and above for masters. How true is that? My GPA isnt up to that.

Also, after registering with $200, are they responsible for the mandatory tests you're to write and wes evaluation or you'll pay for those yourself?

More info about these would be appreciated. Thanks

Yes. It is the same question!

Gloryemo:
Please house, is the question 'who will pay for this trip? suppose to also mean 'who will sponsor you'?

If you have all documents available, what are you waiting for? Let me help you allay your fear so you can start: Your dream will only come true when you take the first step. Start now while you can!

Bbyyo:
Good morning fam......having prepared my documents already and about to apply for studies in USA a friend told me about this thread read a lot but am scared starting up with it.


I intend applying for a Post baccalaureate program in Oregon being that I graduated with a 3rd class degree in a basic medical field having written Gre twice my scores has been low I don't have money to further with the exams.


Please I have all documents required to apply for a post baccularate all am saying is what are my chances getting visa with that program..

I was about asking why tying the 3 questions together. He should separate them and provide answer respectively. In addition to what 100Kobo has said, it is important to add that the student needs to prepare a strong response as to why it is his uncle sponsoring him and paying that large amount of money. "Why is your uncle sponsoring you?" and "What is the relationship between you and your uncle?" will likely come up--for those whose sponsor is uncle.

The overall transcript is cool, but can be improved on. Good luck!

P.S I got your message and will reply as soon as possible.

felixboye1:
Please guys in the house. Help me peruse my intending transcript. Please let me know what to remove and what to add. Inputs from @lagosismyhome, @100kobo, @faintheart, @GboyegaD and other gurus in the house will be very appreciated.

Vo : Good morning
me: Good morning

vo: pass me your i20 and passport
me : here they are

vo : what, where and why are you going to study in the US?
me: I am going to the US to study MA Criminal Justice at Wichita State University. It is a known fact that Criminal Justice System is vast and very effective from the law enforcement to corrections in the United States. Since my area of concentration is in correction, there is no any other better place to study and research different forms of punishments of the offenders than in the US.

vo : how many Universities did you apply to and name them. How many of them offered you admission:
me : 3. They are Wichita State University, University of South Florida and University of Denver, Colorado. All of them offered me admission.

Vo: Why settling for WSU:
Me: Three major reasons I choose WSU are: First, They have Applied Learning embedded in every program. For example, in the Criminal Justice Dept, they have Professional and Scholarly Training Program (PSTP) whereby there is innovation lab where the law enforcement agents in the Wichita area and the Criminal Justice students come to have first hand training program. Certificates are awarded sometimes. This will help me towards my professional career in Correction service.
Second, am convinced I will have a solid research foundation towards my future ambition as a doctoral student. For example, students are required to enroll in Proseminar courses on the areas of their research interest and they must be presented in public forum to earn credit.
Lastly, I am offered a 38% tuition scholarship which is automatically renewable for the second year. This will help offset part of my education cost.
The other minor reasons are that the climatic condition in Wichita is very good. It's sunny most year than even Florida and the cost of living is among the cheapest in the nation.

vo: Why were you awarded scholarship?
me: I think my transcripts and other factors were considered.

vo : how did you hear about the school
me : I was opportuned to listen to a talk from Dr Yumi Suzuki while giving conference talk sometimes ago here in Nigeria. I approached him and discuss about my need of graduate studies with integrated professional training and he told me I will surely get that from WSU.

vo : You already have a Masters degree. Why going for another Masters:
me : I got my MSc degree from NOUN. I realized after completing the program it was not research grounded. For example, no seminar course was offered. The thesis were only written and submitted. No opportunity to defend the thesis. The Universities I applied to for PhD admissions were not satisfied. A graduate coordinator even advised I re-enroll for another Masters degree. Since my objective is to earn PhD in the future upon return to Nigeria, it will be wise of me to reassess and try to re-enroll to have a solid research foundation.

vo : what will this course do for you
me : I am an Aftercare Officer in the Nigerian Prisons Service. I observe that the best way to decongest our prison system is to embrace other non-incarceration system. For example parole and community services. Inmates with shorter jail terms like 3 months can be allowed outside the four perimeter wall to do community services to complete their terms. Since i will be gaining more knowledge on this from the MA Criminal Justice, I will be able to advise the executive management on all these knowledge gained which will help our prison decongestion.
Secondly, it will help in my career progression
Thirdly, I intend establishing an NGO which sees to prison decongestion upon my retirement from national service. The knowledge gained couple with the knowledge I will gain when I enroll for a PhD upon my return to Nigeria will help a long way in fulfilling my ambition.

vo : did you write any standardize test?
me : Yes. GRE (298) and TOEFL (86).

vo : who is your sponsor
me: my Uncles. The first one is into an agricultural farming and the other is a building materials supplier. I will be taking a loan of #3.7m from my organization microfinance back for any other personal expenses that may arise.

vo : what are your plans after study
me : my plan is to return back and continue my work as a correction officer. Two years Study leave with pay has been sanction for me.

Vo: Are u married?
Me: Yes

Vo: How many kids
Me: One

Vo: Why leaving them behind?
Me: My wife works with a govt parastatal so she will not be able to follow me. But she will be visiting with the kid during her annual leave later in the year.

vo: your visa has been aoproved..pick your passport in 3days working time.
me : thank you.