₦airaland Forum

Passion2009:
Good evening.
Have you been able to sort out your visa challenges?

Not yet, I am yet to attend another interview. Thanks for the concern. It's appreciated. I will certainly keep the house posted.

LagosismyHome:
Not sure why an admission would cause anybody to be full of pride but i seen little or big sucess get into people head . Still always odd to me

That been said . I been rooting for you since i first saw your post and really hope you get the visa.. you worked hard for that admission and deserves the visa. I wish you the very best

Oh Maama, thank you so much, ma. I am sincerely emotional right now. Maama is rooting for small me. I will certainly give my all to make you proud. I have been studying for the interview as though I am about to write a board exam. Your message means a lot. Once again, thank you ma. I have learnt from all my mistakes.

TWoods:
Having read through your notes here, there is not much you need to prepare for. This is what you will need to overcome:

1. Why you spent 5 months in the US on a visit visa when you obtained the visa for a program. You'll need to explain that you have a job that permitted you to stay away for that long - apparently on short notice. If you took a leave of absence without pay, it may be useful to bring proof of this with you.

2. You're going for an MA, when you already have a masters degree - you'll need to explain why.
3. Your MA is in theology - from a country where a church can be found on every street corner and at least 1 in 3 people is a pastor. What is the purpose of this degree in your home country?
Frankly that's it. Come up with coherent explanations and hopefully you'll be able to convince your next VO. ia.

Thanks so much, Boss. I doff my hat. Below is an attempt at answering your questions:

1. Although, I noted at the point of entry that I will be staying for 2months, I was stamped in for 6months. I understand it is not logical for a working alien to stay in the US for that long. My host had a health emergency. I had to extend my stay out of concern and friendly obligation. I contacted my immediate boss (HOD) and was granted an extension of leave, provided I continue my classes via Skype. At that time, I had also started the admission processing, so I wrote in to extend my leave on the basis of self development. ( I have a copy of the mail and my HOD's response). Basically because I was on an unpaid leave, my employers did not raise so much dust at the moment. Upon my return though, I danced to the music.

2. My first masters, just like my first degree, is in English Literature. This time, I am going for a master's in theological studies, with a focus in Literature, culture and religion. My first masters was majorly to foster my career path as a Lecturer in a private University owned by a Church. You may think "why the change?". Actually there is no change in career path. For my high school, I attended a Junior Seminary for JSS 1 - JSS 3 and a Rhema College for SS1 - SS3. My first degree is also from a Church owned University, where I was retained after graduation. Interestingly, the long thesis I wrote to earn my undergraduate degree is titled "A Study of Lyrical Poetry In The Book of Psalms". I also currently teach Bible As Literature to undergraduates in the Department of English.

Another important reason why I am going for this second master's in theological study is to use the knowledge acquired in administrating a theological academic school founded by my father and willed to me. My parents established two schools; one primary and one secondary, both are theologically oriented. I am an alumnus of the Secondary School. Both were the first private academic institutions in our local government. My mum currently heads the Secondary School, but age is telling on her, she needs to retire. Although my siblings and I are all members of the board of directors of the Schools, none of my siblings are interested in taking over from her. I have spent the last one year being in active control of our primary school.

3. Yes Nigeria is a highly religious country and one can easily bag a degree in theology here; but that's the problem. No insititution in Nigeria offers theology as an inherently interdisciplinary course. HDS counters extremism by exposing students to contemporaries who have diverse faiths in Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and Buddhism; I can't find that in any Nigerian institution. I also can't study theology in Nigeria with a focus in Literature, Culture and Religion. I don't think I can find any other theological program so perfectly tailored for me and my interest. I am going to be learning theology in a multi-religious environment with diversity and pluralism. I need this to adequate lead a student body consisting of both Christians, Muslims and traditionalists in my theologically orientation school, in my hometown.

HDS also allows me to cross register up to half of my courses in other universities, such as Boston College, Boston University of theology, MIT, among others; at no extra cost. Thereby giving me a robust learning experience. The most invigorating thing about studying theology at HDS is that I can have dual degrees. This enables me to concurrently study for two degree programs from other Harvard Schools such as Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard Law School, etc. This way, I can acquire the needed knowledge and skill to continue my father's legacy and make him proud, at the same time fulfilling my dreams and passion.

Pardon my long story. I know I can't go before the VO to spill this Kain epistle. I will certainly have it condensed. Where do I need to add and where do I need to subtract? Thanks for your gentle reproof.

TWoods:
God doesn’t grant or deny visas, can we please tone down on the insincere religious groveling? It smacks of desperation rather than true reverence for God.

I read through your profile quickly and it’s easy to see why you were denied an F1 visa 4 times. At your last visit to the US, you stayed for 5 months! That’s almost half the year. What job allows you to take a 5 month vacation? The #1 criteria for qualifying for an F1 visa is that you show solid ties to your home country and prove non-immigrant intent. Well you decide if your travel history does that.

Lastly, you’re applying for an MA in theological studies. You can do that in any school anywhere on the planet. Using the name “Harvard” does not grant you any special privileges here.

You can spend more time understanding why you where denied a visa and reconsidering your goals than wasting your time rolling on the floor.

Lol! Lol! Lol! I begged ooo, I begged that no one should come for me cos I have headache and I am preparing for my interview... *Ok, inhale and exhale* I rolled on the floor to thank God on behalf of someone else's visa. That's completely different from my previous denials. You didn't have to tag it "insincere religious grovelling". Haba! Haba Baba!

I have never said I was right by staying in the States for 5 months on a visiting visa. Never! I knew I was wrong and it's of no use crying over spilt milk. An health emergency came up that required me staying that long. Off course at the time, I didn't know it was a wrong move. I got the 4 rejections within 3wks because I didn't want to loose my admission, last year. Desperation is the last thing that defines me. You really didn't have to throw that low blow. I know what went wrong then and I know what to do, thanks for the advice.

About the job, I am a lecturer and a school owner. As a lecturer, you can get a leave of absence without pay. You have aired your opinions, hope I was able to clarify a few things for you? Please kindly don't come after me with negative inferences and assumptions. All the best.

tayben015:
Thank you so much sisterly.....ayam a geh like you o.
Your visa will be approved in Jesus name, yours will be easy too. You'll come back here and testify soon.

Jesu oluwawa......Amin!

Amen ooo! Thanks sisterly.

Abdulrahmon68:
Am not sure he is cracking jokes bro. I think he actually once said on the platform that he graduated from a British Uni with a first class honours in Software Engineering. He seems to be a brilliant dude but he has allowed his profile to get to his head which is why you will always see too much pride in anything he post. I remembered you and him exchanged words last week over the way he was asking questions with arrogance. How I wish he can just be humble enough so that he won't have issues with the VO during his interview. It really pays to be humble! I wish him success!

Cheers.

Joke or not, there is a big lesson to learn from this. My Professor would always say, " woe to those who think experience is the best teacher because it is actually the worst. Precept is the best teacher. Precept is the experience of others."

It saddens me to share my experience as relating to the young man's comedy post of a proposed transcript to study in Harvard. I am also not so saddened cos I am sure this will help someone. The post caught my attention, cos I was initially like, " Oh, wow! Someone going to my school? We can certainly link up". But my bubble bursted when I realized that it was only a satire. For those who can remember, I shared earlier how I got denied a student visa, 4 times. Even though; I carried an I-20 from Harvard, with full tuition waiver plus stipends; I had a bank statement from an account in Atlanta with over $40k genuinely set aside for my studies; Plus a GA position. Chai! The pride that followed me to my first interview no make me see road pass. I answered all the questions arrogantly, who born their father? Chai! Pride is a demon oooo. I was so proud that I didn't alter a single sir/ma. I held my Harvard folder with so much air of importance. And with the same pride, the VOs gave me the blue slip 4 solid times.

LESSONS TO BE LEARNT: You are not superior to any VO as long as long as your visa interview is concerned. IVY school I-20 holders, get rejected too. No one cares, even if you were the best overall graduating student in your alma-mater; as long as you cannot answer the questions thrown at you to the satisfaction of the VO, rejection is sure. Be confident but DON'T BE PROUD! IVY league school is no substitute to preparation. Prepare! Prepare! Prepare! I read Shawarma's appreciation script and the wise counsel texrem gave her. If only someone had said that to me before my previous interviews. If only I was even humble enough to read Nairaland like my dear friend pleaded with me to. As long as you are reading this, I am sure you wouldn't make the same mistakes that I made.

There is safety in multitudes of counsel. God bless Nairaland and God bless you all. Happy Weekend. ��

flukaa:
Good morning all, I was denied a visa at the embassy on 8th of July, planning to go again this August in Abuja. I got married on the 20th of July. I hope my change of marital status won't affect my chances of getting an approval? (desperation). Note: going for my 4th attempt

I don't think it will affect you at all, instead I think it will help your case to prove stronger home ties. Please, I am no guru ooo. Over to the gurus. BTW, 4th attempt ain't nothing if you don't turn it to one. Did you read our class Captain's testimony? Bro Time2Win got his at 9th attempt. Relax and prepare well, my dear. May the blessings of conjugal bliss make way for you.

tayben015:
I've been a silent follower, I am grateful to you all for your contributions, I have really gained a lot from this group, thank you for all you do.

MY VISA WAS APPROVED THIS MORNING


To God be the glory, thank you nairalanders.

A big congratulations, brotherly. See God! See God! Chai see God! I am currently rolling on the floor to praise this God on your behalf. What a smooth, easy peasy interview!

Uncle, please sir before you go, please pass the mantle to me, Biko... I type in faith, as I tap this testimony, I claim it and I receive it, in Jesus Name.

Please, nobody should come for me, Biko. I have headache. I am preparing for my interview. I am preparing as if God is too busy to look my side and I am doing the spiritual work as though that is the only way.

Over preparation no dey kill!

Time2win:
aww! Thanks dear. Surely, your testimony is coming soon!

I scream a loud Amen! God bless you, sir.

Predstan:
Have you applied in Nigeria before your application in Germany?

No, I had not. My applications from Nigeria were after my studies in Germany.

BIMestBabe:
Darling sis! I pass it to you o!! Go and find uncommon favour! All the best

Amen! I grab it by fire! I am next in line to testify oooo.

Gluckwunsch, mein bruder! A big congratulations! Let's toast to a glass of German beer. �

I got my first US Visa from Frankfurt in 2012. Chai! That experience was superbulous. I had to take the ICE train from Mannheim Hauftbanhof to Frankfurt and then took a tram to the embassy itself. Printed Google map and printed train schedule were my handbook. At that time, I couldn't afford internet subscription on my phone, only home wifi. ( That hustle life). . Immediately I highlighted from the fast long-distance train and got out from the train station, I noticed a carnival going on. Na him your village sister join them ooo. I danced, chopped biscuit and sweets, forget say I get visa interview. By the time my senses returned, I realized I only had ten minutes left to my scheduled interview time. Omo, the way I screamed Jesus enh, as if na Him send me message.

On getting to the embassy, my first encounter with the security officers at the gate made me delete the tales of woe, I had heard about US embassies in Nigeria. I went to my recycle bin and deleted again. See enh, the hefty security dudes adorned in their beautiful uniforms were so couteous and polite. They showed me where to drop my phone, camera, other electrical devices and sharp objects. I was then led to a sweet lady who smiled and informed me that she was going to put that screening baton over my body for further search. I replied with a big grin and was like, "please go on, ma'am". Next was into the big temperature controlled hall. See fine chairs! We were not up to 30 applicants in that gigantic hall. At the back of the hall was a dispensary for drinks and snacks. There was also a photo booth, which your sister fully utilized. ( Village girl must to show her logo). After taking my finger prints, I sat down in the very comfy chair for about ten minutes, basking and digesting the grandeur and tranquility that surrounded me. The elderly woman that took my finger prints told me that my wait time could be up to 30 mins. I got a white slip that indicated my number.

Then it was time for my sweet chat ( interview) with the VO. Brethren, the distance between the VO's window and the first roll of chairs in the hall in Frankfurt, is equivalent to the distance between the door of the interview hall and the window of the finger print people in US embassy Lagos, Nigeria. Ko da, everyone is excepted to be seated until their number is called. There is a big screen on the wall in front of the applicants that will show you the procession of the number run. It also indicates your esteemed wait time. Although, the VOs use a mic, but it's not loud enough for those seated to listen on the conversation. So where is tension coming from?

After my chat with the VO, she said something like, " You will receive your visa within the next two days, with the DHL envelope you provided." She didn't sound like she was giving me a ticket to heaven or some extra glorified proclamation or declaration, whatever the English man would call it. I guess I missed where she even said, "I will be approving your visa". I later had to ask if the interview was over. I then asked what time I would get my passport back. I guessed I asked over four silly questions and with smiles, madam VO answered them all.

I got back home to show my sister pictures from the carnival, I earliergate crashed. Also note, I wore a brown sweater and brown leggings. It felt like I went for an excursion and not an interview. The DHL man was the one that woke us up the next morning with the door bell. My passport had arrived. My sis was like, "were la won people yi Sha", ( these people are mad). We kept searching my passport for US stamp, we no see am ooo.

It was later discovered at the very front page of my passport.�� Apologies for my long epistle. My intent is not to detail this thread but to share with you an experience that shows that Nigeria has got to do better. The change starts with you and I. It's a black lie if anyone says that the US embassy is the same everywhere. No chop the lie.

Once again, congrats to all the new successful applicants. I share in your joy. The US is indeed a place to be, howbeit; nowhere can be like home. Nigeria is home, all day, everyday. ��

victree007:
Hello Guys!

VO: Alright your visa is approved....
VO: You did a good job answering all my questions. Please answer the questions same way at the port of entry okay.
I smiled and said I will.

Deficit - $30k
No SOA

What shall we say unto the Lord, all we have to say is thank you, Lord! Darling, I am dancing and singing to rejoice with you. What a lovely transcript. I tap into your testimony. I receive it and I claim it by fire. Oya pass the baton to me oooo.

BIMestBabe:
Funding 23k plus
Deficit 24k plus
Sponsor uncle
PhD program.


My approved Visa transcript. Well,
So all thanks to God Almighty!! The author and finisher of my faith! Visa interview is 99℅ God and 1% prep! Pls pray well, its God that makes the qstns flow in your favour and He also has the heart of your VO.

See you all at the top!!

I join the entire Nairaland family to congratulate you, sir.
I release my legs to dance zanku in celebration of your victory.
I tap into your testimony.
Oya lay your hands of anointing on my head, as I go forth to excel.

I wish you could hear the rhythms of my heart as it's leaping for joy on your behalf.

Congrats, brotherly.

Time2win:
My Transcript

Visa approved at Lagos Embassy, 30th July 2019

School: Clarkson University

Funding: 66,000$ (Tuition and stipends)

Course : Msc Chemical Engineering

This was my 9th attempt, 7 in Lagos, 2 in Abuja

Here is my today's visa transcript:

That's it... I saw God's favour today

nelem:
He needs to fill a new ds160 asap so as to match with the location of the appointment page.

If he fills a new DS160 form, then the DS160 number on his interview confirmation sheet will be different from the one on the DS160 form.

Gloryemo:
Visa approved 8am yesterday at Lagos embassy

Thank you so much everyone.....this is a great testimony for me....I'm overjoyed

I didn't hear the rest oo.. I screamed thank you Jesus in the hall as I ran out..

I join you to scream! I join my voice with others to say congratulations.

Good news flying everywhere. Off to prepare ogbono soup to celebrate with you all.

sharwama:
Please is there another thread where I can play or have productive fun? I'm asking coz this one has become too serious. I feel like fish out of water, I can't breathe.

Please a quick question to the house. A friend of mine filled his DS160 form and picked Lagos, after a previous rejection. But on the scheduling appointment page, he couldn't even find any date. So he tried Abuja as interview location, he found a date in July, picked it and submitted. Now he just realized he has two contradicting interview locations on his DS160 and his appointment slip.

Please, what should he do? A bit urgent. All gurus in the house, please your opinion is needed.

nelem:
I sincerely hope & pray you get visa as soon as possible. take the considerations/advise being put forward and make the best decision.
All the best

A thunderous amen to your prayers. I sure will. Thanks a trillion.

Okeyogwo:
Visa approved at the Abuja Consulate.

After my first refusal 2months ago I decided to bounce back on the 9th of July.
That morning I woke up as early as 3am to do my final rehearsals and after that as at 8am I was at the embassy. I was kabashing and praying seriously.


Me: Good morning

Vo: Good morning, I love your attire, you look good

Me: I was so shocked and I bluntly altered thank you sir


I give God all the glory

God be praised! I rejoice with you Baba. My stomach was just sweeting me as I dey read your transcript. Prayer+Preparation = Positive result.
I beg, which Kain attire you knack go there ooo, to have made the VO complement you.

orimahspence:
Visa approved !! @ the 6th attempt

My Nairaland experience has been quite an eventful one

Transcript anytime soon....

At the 6th attempt? Wawu! Lala! I rejoice with you. I jubilate join. God bless all those who assisted in bringing this testimony to manifestation.

Wretch32:
Visa approved today, 6:45am
Walter carrington

If you saw me crying today at the consulate, I’m very sorry for embarrassing myself this way, they were tears of joy

Congratulations, I rejoice with you!
@LagosismyHome where is my own advice, Biko nu?

fairheart:
It is okay. Tell your school to contact the embassy for you. It is Harvard and so they wield considerable influence, hopefully your case isnt so critical. Truth be told, I sense your refusals were caused due to overstay.

I hope you get it this time.
t

Thank you, so much, I sense so too. It could also be that I had just returned back to Nigeria barely 3 months before applying for a different class of non-immigrants visa. To them, I might appear like wanting to use the F1 for immigration purposes, which is against the law. Japa wey I no japa all these years, na now I go come japa? Who gets the privilege to be a Harvard alumnus and then dishes it for whatever reason in the world?

Anyways, I guess the ball is in my court to convince the VO of my true intent. @fairheart, please can I PM you for better clarification on how to go about my application this time? PS: I don't know how to PM @Shawarma, our First Lady, I asked for your input ma, please forget me not.

I have noted all the contributions and will sure put them into good use. God bless your darling hearts! ❤️

Dipro:
Approved transcript
Abuja Embassy
26th June 7:30am
Family of 3

There were only 2 VO’s.. One middle age white lady in her early 40’s who was dishing out pink paper after much drilling., and an old man in his early 60’s who was very slow, he denied the two ppl in front of us, the first one a man, and next a lady and her two teenage daughters.


On behalf of my wife and daughter, very special thanks to @Lagosismyhome, @Brown2green, for your answers to my questions., and to @Walspring for helping us with the SEVIS fee payment. May the good Lord open the doors of favour to you all that no man can shut it. And to all the contributors on this great forum and those preparing for their interview, I know that you will come here to share your testimonies. God bless you all richly.

Wow! A mighty congratulations to you and your family. I rejoice with you.

fairheart:
I would like to see the chronology of trip and interviews to the last refusal. That is how we can manage to figure out possible cause of refusal.

Thank you so much, sir. Your contributions and assistance to all, earns you a certain place of respect in my heart. To everyone who contributed, thanks a great deal. I am humbled.

Here is a chronological break down of my US voyages:

Got the first B1 while living in Europe as a master's student in 2012. Used it severally before renewing via Dropbox. I never stayed beyond 2months. I relocated back to Nigeria and still maintained my B1. During one of my trips from Nigeria to the US, I was denied entry in April, 2015. I had been stamped in by the immigration officer. I was about to retrieve my suitcases when an elderly Nigerian lady asked for directions to her connecting gate. She seemed really lost. I promised to help her get to her gate; but told her to go get her bags first. While waiting for her, immigration police men came. They asked to know why I was just standing. I told them I was waiting for someone. Mama came, they asked if we were together. She said yes, I said no, that I actually just met her. Our answers contradicted. We were then taken for secondary checking. Mama started crying, they eventually let her go. Over confidence finished me. They went through my laptop, phone, email box, everything. Eventually, they found out I only had $100 on me for a 6months trip. My journey also still needed a train journey before I get to my final destination. They asked to see the ticket but I didn't have it on me. I told them, I knew my way around and could easily get a Mega Bus ticket, Greyhound or Amtrack on my own. And since I wasn't sure of landing time, I waiting to buy it at the station. I needed just about $50 for the ticket.

My case was transferred from one officer to the other, eventually I was informed that my visa would be cancelled and I would be sent back home. I was not banned. I was allowed to call just one person. I called one of my uncles in that particular state. He wasn't the one I intended visiting, so he didn't know about my trip. Anyways, he came to the airport with his lawyer immediately but was not allowed to see me. Uncle contacted my parents in Nigeria, Pops started pulling all strings possible but it wasn't to be. I was returned to Nigeria and my family were super supporting. Pops man went to glory before the case was resolved. I just didn't bother anymore. In November of 2017, I went back for another interview and was granted without so much questioning.

I mentioned I would be in the States for 2months, although I was stamped in for 6months. It was at the conference I went for, that I got information about the Harvard link. So I started the process immediately. I was with my uncle, the one who came to the airport in 2015. But I later went to visit a friend who was about to put to bed. She gave birth but had complications. Both herself and the baby had to go through surgery. I couldn't just leave like that. Her husband pleaded that I wait back to assist them. I know, I was foolish to have decided to stay back. I also used that period to communicate with school, did all the necessary things and then came home with my i-20 in April of 2018.

Some people advised that I could convert my B1 to F1 without leaving the US, but I didn't have the proper information. I also wanted to make sure I do things right. Harvard is in Boston, my said friend lives in Chicago, so in that area, I am clear. I went for my first F1 interview on the 1st of August, 2018 and went for the other three within three weeks. I got expedited dates. The last lady that interviewed me was mad at how I got a new date within 2 days. She didn't bother asking any question, she just denied me. When I queried, she said she didn't need to ask any question. I told her my admission was at stake. She got mad and shouted back, " then study in Nigeria."

I haven't travelled to the US since the refusals. I had issues with my job as a lecturer due to my extended holiday. My parents have two schools, I currently manage one. My first masters is different from the current one. My uncle whose account I am using as a support document, mostly lives in Nigeria. He only goes to the US for official reasons. My scholarship covers full tuition with some stipends. I also have a letter for GA position. HU needed additional financial background, in case a student fails to meet up with their academic grades required to maintain the scholarship. So big Uncle fixed a certain sum to that effect.

I hope, I have been able to answer all the questions raised. I am set to reapply. My school is ready to support in any way. I am willing to take every advice and criticism. I love you all with the love of Christ. God bless your sweet hearts.

Big congrats brotherly. I tap into your mist of the year testimony. Keep soaring.

ValentinoPerez:
I sincerely want to appreciate everyone on this trend for great and invaluable efforts put together to bring up fruitful discussions at all time. I have been a silent follower of this trend and finally, benefit from all your productive comments. May the good Lord bless you guys immensely in return.

My transcript goes thus:

Interview date: July 11, 2019.
Embassy: Lagos
Time: 6:45am
Window: 4, a black American man.

VO: Good Morning

Me: Good morning sir (almost at the same time with him)

VO: Let me have your documents please

Me: All right sir and I passed it

VO: Oh, University of Alabama!

Me: Yes, that's right!

VO: Why a PhD in Applied Mathematics?

Me: Pardon? (Because I wasn't expecting that as a first question)

VO: He repeated the question

Me: I want a PhD in applied mathematics because I'm passionate about the use of pure and applied mathematical concepts to study the evolution, effect, control of infectious diseases and epidemiogy of diseases that follow seasonal trend. I enjoy the use of mathematical models to provide insight into the complex structures of epidemiological and biomedical problems.

VO: Why University of Alabama?

Me: I chose university of Alabama because they have a strong research team in BioMathematics. Their applied mathematics group has excellent and award winning researchers, such as Prof Dang Nguyen who has just received a distinguished award from the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. I'm also fascinated by the research of Prof David Halpern-who uses mathematical models to investigate biological and bioengineering process-with whom I have had correspondence.

VO: How did you come about BioMathematics?

Me: During my undergraduate, I took a course on Modeling of infectious diseases and I eventually did my undergraduate research in this area. After which I had a full scholarship to AIMS for my master where I had the opportunity of working under Prof Robert Smith of the University of Ottawa. He later supervised my thesis: Modeling the effect of vaccination on the control of Leptospirosis using impulsive and differential equations. These spur my passion for BioMath and I want to expand my research prowess.

VO: Your GTA, How did you get it?

Me: Pardon? (at this point, I was tired of talking)

VO: Tell me how you got GTA.

Me: The graduate admission committee found my application strong enough and contacted me for the GTA position (I lost composure at this point because this wasn't the response I prepared).

VO: Okay, what is your plan after graduation?

Me: I intend to return to my current place of employment-Landmark University where I currently serve as assistant.....and later pursue a post-doctoral research to broaden my horizons.

VO: Typing for few seconds and then looking at my mouth (as if I have not spoken enough but of course, the flow wasn't like when I was talking about my research)

Me: Yes! (like, that's all)

VO: Continued with the typing

Me: I was just speaking in tongues inside of me with my mouth gesticulating. I was thinking I had floppy responses in the later part of the interview.

VO: Looked up into my eyes and said your visa is approved.

Me: Thank you sir. Thank you for approving my Visa.

VO: No! with reaction. It's my job.

Vo: Reached out for the white paper, pick up your passport after 3-working days at the address indicated on this white paper. And you will need your I-20 at the point of entry.

NB: The VO was patient and he listened to me through out the conversation (lucky me!). I got tired so early because I was passionately dramatizing with my two hands and I expect the interview to end so soon (lazy me!).
However, be prepared for anything, personalise all your responses and be passionate with your delivery.

Time2win:
were you refused all those four times with full funding from Harvard?

And why going for another MSc and not PhD

I applied for both, but only got the Masters position, with a GA position with my assigned supervisor.

CptCharlesVane:
Why were you denied four times, sure you haven't been blacklisted? Were the denials all in the same country?Why did you stay for up to five months on a visit visa as opposed to what you told was your reason?

Anyway, you should share the past transcripts as well as you remember make people wey sabi help.

All the best!!!

I will indeed share the transcripts before the end of the day. I am a single female and have never flaunted any immigration law. My last visit was for an academic conference. My host had a health emergency which resulted into me extending my stay. I took her medical report with me for one of the interviews, last August. Also on the negative side, I had previously been denied entry in 2015 for traveling without having enough cash. I also wasn't with any bank card, because I was visiting my uncle and wasn't going to need much money, ( he would usually box me up, sef) Upon return to Nigeria, I got the issue resolved and got a new B1/B2.
During the interview sagas last August, HU's registrar sent a mail to the embassy on my behalf. The HOD, my supervisor and the international office also reached out to them, but the embassy replied that they don't discuss their decisions with 3rd party. I was sent a copy of their response. The consulate was of the stand point that each candidate needs to prove themselves as a qualified non-immigrants, irrespective of the Schools they intend to attend.

Time2win:
were you refused all those four times with full funding from Harvard?

Yes, I was, sir.

LagosismyHome:
Why do you feel that the only reason why someone wants to travel .
While i believe that God is a very busy person and Nigerians worry him over irrelevant stuff and dont truly live in godly ways but call God only for wants and needs...... For me make them carry go if it makes them feel better and doesnt hurt anyone . If you dont believe in God that fine , some believe in God and it works for them so hey let them carry on

My apologies for quoting you, sir. This is my first time of posting on this platform, after haven spent days reading the threads. Don't know any other way of doing my enquiry. Kindly pardon my ignorance.

I doff my heart to all the gurus in the house. To the big daddies, mummies, uncle's and aunties, I saw well done, sirs and ma's.

Straight to the issue at hand. I am about apply for my F1 Visa this year, and I will like to follow the wisdom of Abraham Lincoln. I have taken this long to even fill a DS160 form, cos I want to do it right this time.

I currently have a valid B1/B2 visa. My first visa was issued in 2012 while I was studying in a foreign country. Last year, I was denied a F1 Visa four times, all in August of 2018 ( I am ready to submit the transcripts if requested). I got a reinstatement this year and would be applying again.

School: Harvard
Degree: MA
Course: Theological Studies
Funding: Full Tuition scholarship with stipends as well a SOA from a bank in Atlanta, owned by my uncle who works with the United Nations.
Last trip: Nov. 2018 ( stayed 5months)
Highest Qualification: Masters from a country in Europe

@fairheart @shawarma @LagosismyHome in short, all the oldies come and diagnose me.