3. What is the general procedure for obtaining a student visa?

  Students are able to apply for a visa only after they have been accepted to study at a specific institution. If more than one university or college or English language program accepts you, you must choose which school you will attend before you apply for a visa. (To begin exploring U.S. academic opportunities, please visit
http://www.usjournal.com/_programs/show.en.html )

4. What happens after the U.S. campus accepts the student?

  The U.S. campus will send the student a special form, called an I-20 or "Certificate of Eligibility for Non-Immigrant Student Status." This is not a visa. The I-20 is a visa application and will be used together with your visa (if one is granted to you), passport and other documentation to enter the United States. The I-20 provides information about the student's course of study, and his means of financial support.

5. After the student receives the I-20 Form, what should he do?

  Schedule an appointment with the educational division your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You will need to complete the consular application forms, and provide proof of financial support, past academic records, letters of recommendation from teachers, as well as the Form I-20. Also, prepare yourself for the consular interview.

6. What kinds of questions are asked in the consular interview?

  The interview is an opportunity for the student to prove his credibility. The consuls and the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) need to make sure the student intends to study, and not just use the Student Visa to disappear in the U.S. Unfortunately, many non-U.S. students never attend classes, or work illegally in the United States.

7. How can a student prove his credibility?

  First, provide documents that prove adequate funding for your studies in the U.S. Secondly, show how your academic work in the U.S. will help you pursue a career in your home country. Finally, demonstrate that you fully intend to return home after studying in the USA. Show the consular representative that you have a strong network of relatives, friends and / or job prospects.

8. Why is the rate of visa denials so high in some Asian countries?

  That's a complicated question, and one that the U.S. Congress is addressing. Earlier this year, U.S. senators and representatives proposed resolutions on a U.S. International Education Policy. The proposal included objectives that would support visa and employment policies to promote increased numbers of international students here in the United States. There is also some discussion about the re-organization of the INS.

9. The student visa application process seems complicated; will the new proposals simplify that process?

  That is certainly one of the objectives, which will further open the U.S. door to more overseas students. Though the process may seem complicated, it is certainly worth all of the student's effort. Remember that the professionals at U.S. campuses -- and the officials representing the United States in your country -- help thousands of students complete the visa process each year.

10. What other advice do you have for Singaporean students?

  Know the law about your student visa. Obey all the rules which apply to your particular visa status. The immigration rules in the United States are very strict and specific; it is your responsibility to know and follow them. Consult legal experts if necessary. 

  If you have any questions about studying in the USA, please visit
www.usjournal.com or contact Cheryl Darrup Boychuck directly at
cheryl@usjournal.com