docshare360 - GRE TOEFL VISA

THE COMPLETE STUDENT'S VISA GUIDE BOOK

2009-05-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

US Consular Districts:
You have to attend for interview at the following consulate or embassy to which your passport consular district falls.

NEW DELHI
Residents and holders of Passports issued by the regional passport offices of Delhi and the north Indian states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab,ajasthan and Uttar Pradesh should contact and attend for F1-Visa interview at:U.S. Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi
Phone: (011) 24198000
Fax: (011) 24190017 or 24198407
Consular Office & hours of operation:
Immigrant visa services: 8:30 a.m., Monday - Friday
Nonimmigrant visa services: 8:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., Monday - Friday
NOTE: Due to administrative work, visa section is closed on the last working day of each month

MUMBAI (Bombay)
Residents and holders of Passports issued by the regional passport offices of the western states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa and Union Territories Daman, Diu,Dadra and Nagar Haveli should attend for the F1-visa interview or contact at:
The U.S. Consulate General
Lincoln House
78 Bhulabhai Desai Road
Mumbai 400026
For F1 visa procedures call (022) - 23637407 & 23637408
Phone: 022-23633611 to 3618
Fax: 022-23630350
Consular Office Hours of operation:
Nonimmigrant visa services:
8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday - Friday
Token distribution: 11 a.m.
Note: Mumbai's Visa Services Office is also closed on the last working day of each month.

CALCUTTA (Kolkata)
Residents and holders of Passports issued by the regional passport offices of Assam,Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, Bihar, Orissa, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh,Sikkim, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands should attend for f1-visa interview or
contact at:
The U.S. Consulate General
5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani
Calcutta 700071
Telephone: 033-22823611/15
Facsimile: 033-22822335/3865
Consular Office Hours of operation:
Nonimigrant services 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Monday-Tuesday Thursday-Friday
(Closed on Wednesday)

CHENNAI (Madras)
Residents and holders of Passports issued by the regional passport offices of the southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Lakshadweep Islands and Pondicherry should attend for f1-visa interview or contact at:
The U.S. Consulate General
Mount Road
Chennai 600006
Phone: 044-28112000
Fax: 044-28112020
The Consular Office Hours of operation:
Nonimigrant visa services 8:15 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday
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US Consulates websites:
New Delhi:: http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov/
Chennai: http://chennai.usconsulate.gov/
Kolkata: http://calcutta.usconsulate.gov/
Mumbai: http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/
http://www.visa-services.com/student-FM.html
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Emails of US consulates:
Regarding NONIMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATIONS
including students (F1). who will be in the U.S. for a specific period contact respective
consulates.
New Delhi: newdelhi@pd.state.gov
Kolkata: ConsularCalcutta@state.gov
Mumbai: MumbaiNIV@state.gov
Chennai: ChennaiNIV@state.gov
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F1 Visa:
The "F-1" visa is for USA academic studies for foreign Students. It's a non-immigrant visa for student, which will permit the applicant to stay for a particular period of time in the United States to accomplish the purpose of studying.
All applicants for F1 visas must overcome the legal presumption that they are intending immigrants. To qualify for a visa, applicants must demonstrate that they:
� Plan to remain in the U.S. for only a specific, limited time.
� Have sufficient funds for the stay in the U.S.
� Have a residence outside the U.S., as well as other binding obligations, which will ensure departure at the conclusion of the stay in the U.S.
Once an F-1 visa has been issued please be aware, however, that new U.S. law allows students and trainees to enter the United States no more than 30 days before the program start date indicated on their I-20 or DS-2019. In general, we recommend that such visa holders ENTER NO MORE THAN 10 DAYS before their program start date. While it is
possible to enter up to 30 days in advance, students/trainees should be prepared to justify to immigration officials the need for any earlier arrival.
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How to apply for visa interview appointment
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Note for Mumbai applicants:
Mumbai Us consular district people can take online appointment or offline appointment, which can be found at the following link.
http://www.visa-services.com/student-FM.html
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Note for New Delhi, Kolkata & Chennai applicants:
All first time applicants of New Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai consular districts for F-1 visa would need to make an appointment on the website http://www.ttsvisas.com Whatever may be the previous US visa status of an applicant, when applying, first time for F1 visa, a student has to appear for personal interview by taking an appointment with web-site http://www.ttsvisas.com
You have to take a hard copy (print-out) of the appointment made by you after the appointment was confirmed. You can directly take the appointment page print copy or confirmation mail sent to your given mail-id by the TTS people. Without this print copy of your appointment you will not be allowed to attend the interview.
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Postponing, preponing of the appointment with TTS:
If you are unable to keep your appointment, cancellation or modification must be done latest by 2:00 pm on the day prior to your appointment by using the "Modify/Cancel Reservation" link on the Home Page of the link http://www.ttsvisas.com.
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SEVIS & BCIS:
SEVIS - STUDENT AND EXCHANGE VISITOR INFORMATION SYSTEM.
Beginning January 30, 2003, all forms I-20 issued by academic educational institutions, must be created within the SEVIS system. As of January 30, 2003 all new forms I-20 issued on or after that date must be SEVIS compatible documents. All students must present a SEVIS-generated form I-20, if they are applying for a visa after January 30,2003. These new forms are printed on a single sheet of paper and will have a large black bar code down the top right hand side of the form.
SEVIS is basically a system to enable U.S. academic institutions to maintain accurate and timely data on foreign students, and their dependents, and communicate this information to the now BCIS formerly known as U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and Department of State in real time.
BCIS: The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) became the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS), moving from its organizational home in the Department of Justice to the newly created Department of Homeland Security.
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Required Documents for F1 Visa:
They can be classified as follows.
A. Consulate Documents.
B. US University Documents.
C. Qualifying Test Documents.
C. Educational Documents.
D. Proof of Funds Documents.
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A. Consulate Documents:
1. Copy of Web appointment (TTS).
2. Form DS-156. (Can be downloaded and printed back-to-back (Both sides on a single
paper or sheet)
Download it from:
http://travel.state.gov/DS-0156.pdf
3. Form DS-157 (Only for all male applicants in the age group of 16 to 45 years)(Not
required for Female applicants)
Download it from:
http://travel.state.gov/DS-0157.pdf
4. Form DS-158 (for applicants seeking visas in F category)
Download it from:
http://travel.state.gov/DS-0158.pdf
Note: You can fill the above forms in your own handwriting or if you are using Adobe Acrobat reader 5.0, you can directly type in the form (except a few columns) and take printouts directly.
5. One Demand Draft from the for Rs.4,600/- as mentioned below.
6. One Photo 50mm X 50mm (or 2inches x 2 inches Square) on form DS-156. (Photo guidelines are given below within this section. Kindly follow them as described.)
7. Passport - Each applicant must possess an individual passport valid for travel to the U.S. with a validity date at least six months beyond the intended period of stay;
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Banks to take DD's (For Chennai consulate Applicants Only):
The following is a list of nationalized or foreign banks with a branch in Chennai from which the U.S. Consulate General in Chennai will accept Demand Drafts (current as of October 2003):
ABN AMRO Bank
American Express Bank
Andhra Bank
Allahabad Bank
Bank of America
Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur
Bank of India
Bank of Maharashtra
Bank of Muscat
Bharat Overseas Bank
Bank of Tokyo & Mitsubishi
BNP Paribas
Central Bank
Canara Bank
Citibank
Duetsche Bank
Global Trust Bank
HDFC Bank
Honkong Bank
ICICI Bank
IDBI Bank
Indian Bank
Indian Overseas Bank
Karnataka Bank
Lakshmivilas Bank
Oriental Bank of Commerce
Punjab National Bank
Reserve Bank Of India
Standard Chartered Bank
State Bank of Hyderabad
State Bank of India
State Bank of Indore
State Bank of Mysore
State Bank of Travancore
Syndicate Bank
Tamilnad Mercantile Bank
Tamilnadu state apex co-op Bank
The Jammu & Kashmir Bank
The Federal Bank
UCO Bank
UTI Bank
Vijaya Bank
Demand Draft Details:

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Visa fees are as follows:
1) Non-immigrant visa application fee (non-refundable) Rs. 4600/-
2) Courier fee: Rs. 400 (Courier fees may be paid in cash or via a demand draft favoring "T.T. Services" to be paid on the day of appointment at the TT Services counter located at the Embassy.)
One Demand Draft/Bank Draft/Pay Order/Bank Managers
Check taken for the following amount from any Nationalized Banks and Local Branches of Foreign Banks. DD's drawn on Co-operative Banks are not accepted.

DD specifications for different centers are as follows.

1. New Delhi:
One Demand Draft for Rs.4600/-, drawn in favor of the "American Embassy, New Delhi." Drafts should be drawn on a bank with a branch in New Delhi.
2. calcutta
One separate DD on "American Consulate General, Calcutta," Payable at Calcutta for the amounts of Rs.4600/
Write your full name and date of birth on the back of each and every bank draft, using only a pencil to do so.

3. Mumbai:

In Mumbai a single DD includes both Visa application fee and Courier fee.
Demand Draft for Visa Application Fee: Rs.5000/- Favoring
"VFS a/c - US Visa", payable in Mumbai.
Note: Drop Box applicants from Western Region opting the courier service (Blue Dart)
for home/office pick-up of application - please add Rs. 120/- per passport. Total fee payable with pick-up service: Each application must contain the Demand Draft for Visa
Application Fee: Rs 5120/- Favoring " VFS a/c - US Visa" payable in Mumbai

4. Chennai:

One DD on "American Consulate General, Chennai." Payable in Chennai for the amounts of Rs.4, 600/-
Important: Please write your complete name and passport number on the back of each draft.
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B. US University Documents:
1. Offer letter from university or Acceptance letter from university.
2. SEVIS generated i-20 form from US University.
3. Any special letter of Aid or Funding.
4. Any useful correspondence with university officials or department officials or professors, in the form of mails or snail mails. If emails take printouts of the same. When VO asks for them, present them.
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Regarding i-20's read the following:
(As of January 30, 2003 all new forms I-20 issued on or after that date must be SEVIS compatible documents. First time students will be able to enter the U.S. with non-SEVIS documents issued prior to January 30, 2003. All continuing students must present a SEVIS-generated form I-20, if they are applying for a visa after January 30, 2003. These new forms are printed on a single sheet of paper and will have a large black bar code
down the top right hand side of the form.)
Note: If a student receives More than one i-20, he/she should take all the received i-20's to visa interview. If the visa officer asks for the proof of moreb i-20's then you can show them to VO. But unless the VO asks for them don't show. Just keep them with you. And also remember that VO will be knowing about all your admissions (If I-20 was ever issued)
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C. Qualifying Test Documents:
Original Score Reports of
1. TOEFL
2. GRE/GMAT
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D. Educational Documents:
1. Original Degree of Graduation or any other available highest degree as per the specifications applicable to individual cases.
(What if Degree certificate is not available? kindly follow the following FAQ available with Chennai consulate web-site.

Q. What if I have not yet received my degree certificate?
A. Yes - you may still apply, but please be sure to include your Individual and consolidated mark Sheets and provisional certificate along with Course Completion Certificate duly signed and stamped with college seal by principal.)
2. Intermediate or (10+2 exam) original certificates or as applicable to your case.
3. SSC / CBSE - (+10th standard) original certificates or as applicable to your case.
4. Original Degree Consolidated marks list (if available and applicable to your case.) along with all semester/year marks lists, which is now became mandatory.
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E. Proof of Funds Documents:
1. Proof of ability to finance the education
A. Scholarship letters,
B. Bank letters,
C. Salary slips of parents and other sponsors if any,
D. IT returns for last 2-3 years etc of parents and other sponsors if any.
E. Rental receipts of own shops or buildings if any with revenue stamps.
F. Sponsors Business P/L Account duly certified by a CA if sponsor is a businessman.
G. Pension Papers - if sponsor is retired.
H. 6 months of Bank records - i.e. Bank transaction statements. Or Bank Passbooks of sponsors. (At times VO ask for more than 6 months also.)
I. Chartered Accountant Statement of Monetary worthiness of the sponsors.
J. Affidavit of supports by sponsors and student separately.
K. Loan approval letters (if you want to show loans.) Regarding loans kindly look into
FAQ's given below .
Note:
As a matter of fact you need to show the funds available with you through liquid cash, liquid assets and properties and other immovable assets and annual income.

1. Liquid Cash
The Bank in which the sponsor is having an account on bank's letterhead and duly
stamped along with a seal can certify this. It can be supported by 6 months Bank statements or Pass books whatever available with Bank.
Your sponsors bank account should contain cash for first year funds of university fee + Living expenses + insurance + misc expenses + airfares to USA and + Reserve cash funds for second year. Generally it will be between 20-25 lakhs and sometimes up to 30- 35 lakhs depending upon the university expenses (Tuition + Living expenses as mentioned for 9-12 months on I-20 for the length of study as mentioned in I-20 ranging from 24 months to 39 months)
If it's for 24 months you have to show availability of liquid funds for 24 months. If the normal length of course is for 36 months, then you have to show availability of funds for all three years, even you know course is for 24 months. So a lot depends upon what your I-20 is mentioning.
Liquid funds also covers any Fixed deposits + Bonds + Shares + NSC + Mutual funds + Gold + Jewellery etc. In fact it's better to show Fixed deposits in our opinion. They carry much weight. For everything you intend to show get a latest valuation certificates basing
on which CA will be giving his certificate. If you are showing Gold and Jewellery, you should produce their valuation from a Government approved official valuer, along with a declaration of possession of Gold and jewellery by the sponsorer. But remember in recent times Gold and jewellery has lost its shine in visa processing, as many a times VO's
commenting that they don't think parents or sponsorers will sell of their Gold and other valuables for the sake of their wards education. So be careful, while showing Gold and Jewellery. Try to show it only as an asset but not as a means of funding for college expenses and fees

So from bank you need to produce:

A. Bank Letter stating the funds available with sponsors account and how much it will be
equivalent in US$.
B. Fixed Deposits Original certificates.
C. 6 months or more Bank Transaction statements and Pass Books and any other related documents.

2. Properties

There's no uniformity in these issues. Generally it should be around 70-80 lakhs or more.
These may be Buildings, plots, flats, shops, agricultural fields, farm houses etc
immovable property in any form if you are able to justify. All these should be evaluated
and certified by a CE - Chartered Engineer or Tehsil or concerned metro/revenue officials
etc to give their certificate of opinion on the value of these immovable assets.
3. CA statement:
A CA - Chartered Accountant will give his certificate of Monetary worthiness of
sponsors basing on the documents he is having related to sponsor. His certificate
mentions all the Cash, liquid assets and immovable assets available with the sponsor,
which can be available for immediate use for the applicants study in USA.
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Some Important Faq's on F-1 Visa, which every student should go through: These are from US consulates and other good sites.
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Q. Should we carry original documents or photocopies?
A. The applicant should carry the original and one photocopy of all documents.
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Q. Do students need any special documents?
A. You must present current documentary evidence that sufficient liquid funds are
available from a specifically designated and reliable financial resource to pay all travel,
living and school expenses. If the support is from the educational institution in the form
of a scholarship or assistantship, it should be noted on the Form I-20. If the support is
from a sponsor (normally a very close relative), you must present a notarized Form I-134
Affidavit of Support available free of charge at any office of the US Immigration and Naturalization Service in the USA or can be downloaded from the link ttp://www.immigration.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/files/i-134.pdf
Stating willingness to finance your education expenses, along with copies of the sponsor's most recent income tax return and bank statements for the past six months. An F-1 applicant must have evidence of sufficient and readily available funds to meet all expenses for the first year of study, and that barring unforeseen circumstances adequate funds will be available for each subsequent year of study as mentioned on I-20 form. The number of years required to complete the course of study will be determined by the school and noted on the I-20.

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Q. Do I have to pay the first year tuition in advance?
A. No -- paying the tuition expenses in advance is one of several ways to show proof of funds, but it is NOT a requirement to pay in advance.

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Q. What if the university will not accept the tuition fees in advance?
A. It is the university's decision to accept or not accept the fees in advance. The Consulate has no influence over universities' policies regarding this. Students should consult with prospective universities regarding their policies well in advance of applying for a student visa.
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Q. What documents should I show to prove that I could pay for my education?
A. There are no specific documents that prove a student is able to pay for his/her education. Bank account statements, chartered accountant statements, employmentletters, and property documents are the most common documents used to show proof of funds.
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Q. What if my university does not require that the TOEFL or GRE?
A. Students whose prospective university does not require that they take the TOEFL orGRE should provide a letter from the university stating the same. However, the Consulate recommends that all student visa applicants provide standardized test scores.
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Q. Is it required that I apply by Drop Box?
A. Only returning Student applicants may use the drop-box
First time Student visa applicants applying for four-year undergraduate programs or graduate programs leading a master or doctoral degree must make an appointment and be interviewed. Please be aware that after reviewing your case a Consular Officer may require a personal interview before a final decision is made.
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Q. How do I prove that I can afford to attend school in the United States?
A. An I-20 shows the amount of funding you must have available to cover the first year's expenses. The total amount includes tuition and fees, living expenses, expenses of dependents (if applicable), and other expenses (as applicable). You must prove that you have immediate funds available to cover this amount. If you are going to a two-years Master's program, then you must a lso show that funds are or will likely be available to cover the same amount for the second year.
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Q. What if I have not yet received my degree certificate?
A. Yes - you may still apply, but please be sure to include your Individual and consolidated mark Sheets and provisional certificate along with Course Completion Certificate duly signed and stamped with college seal by principal
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Q. How soon after getting my I-20 may I apply for the visa?
A. You may apply for the visa no earlier than 90 days before the first day of school as indicated on the I-20 form.
[*EDIT: The limit has now been raised to 120 days]
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Q. What if I have received a full tuition waiver from my prospective university?
You must prove that funds are immediately available to cover the first year's costs, and show evidence that funds will be available for all subsequent years. Any financial documentation you provide should be in support of this. This applies to ALL student visa applicants.
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Q. Does having a relative in the US affect visa application
A. No.
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Q. What about a foreign sponsor?
A. The motive has to be established clearly. Sixty per cent of the students, who go to the US for education, do so on some sort of aid. Education in the US is a costly proposition. So, if someone is funding you, then the US Consul would want to know why, and under
what terms.
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Q. For a student visa with sponsorship, is it for or against one's case if the sponsor is (a) a US citizen, (b) an Indian citizen?
A. There is no regulation for or against the nature of citizenship of the sponsor for US visa.
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Q. Is there a specific number or quota annually for student visas?
A. There is no ceiling on student visas according to US immigration law.
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Q. I am a student going to US for PhD. My I-20 says that my funding is for one year, after which it will be reviewed. Will I have to show funds for the rest of the three-four years of study?
A. At the visa office, the students must show funds (academic plus living) for one year, and access to funds for subsequent years. If your aid covers your overall expenses for the first year, then it is OK but it's better to show funds availability to take care of day-to-day expenses in US.
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Q. I get my visa on one I-20; then I get another I-20 from another school, which I now want to join. What will I have to do?
A. You will have to apply for another visa.
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Q. How many attempts are allowed if visa is denied?
A. Especially for Mumbai people two attempts in duration of two years, with a gap of three working days between each attempt. There is also a mail in facility after two attempts where you can mail the US Consulate your documents for review. What has to be kept in mind is that, with each new attempt some fresh documents have to be produced. Visa consuls go by the rules, and if same papers are submitted, then the application hardly stands a chance. But In the consulates of New Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai where one has to attend for F1-Visa interview through http://www.ttsvisas.com one can attend any number of times without restriction but with a gap of three working days (don't include Saturdays and Sundays while counting). Every time you need to pay the application fee and it's better to apply only if you are able to show considerable change in your case, than your previous interview.
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Q. Does the reputation of the college have any bearing on my visa application?
A. No. However, the reputation of the college establishes the motive. If you are going to a reputed college, intentions are clear. But if you are going to an institution no one has heard of, and which has not asked you to take any standard tests, then that makes the US consul suspicious. Though, in some cases, when students are going for some specialist courses, which are not offered anywhere else, a marginal school would do.
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Q. If I have been chosen by more than 10 schools, does that help?
A. Yes, it establishes that you are a superstar. There is no direct relation, though it completes the picture for the consul, and helps them evaluate the case better. remember the more i-20's you receive, there's m ore chance for visa.
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Q. What should a student wishing a Graduate (Master's) study in the US do if he is financing his studies himself?
A. He will have to show how he would transfer his funds from India to the US. Does he have a foreign exchange release permit from an authorized bank or a sponsor in the US to take care of his living and education in US dollars? Moreover, he should convince the US Consul that he has strong ties in India, which prove that he is not an intending immigrant.
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Q. For students going for further studies, what is considered as conclusive proof that they are coming back? How much assets or liquid cash on hand should be shown for a student visa?
A. There is no fixed amount of assets or liquid cash specified in the US immigration law. The law that operates is that the interviewing US Consul should be convinced that the applicant is a bona fide student, wanting genuinely to pursue higher studies in America and return after his education to India and apply his knowledge in India. The ties that
could be shown by students, would involve his economic attraction in India after graduation and social roots to which he would return rather than stay in the US. Statistics in the past have shown that 7 to 8 out of 10 students do not return and therefore the Consulates in India are very careful in granting student visas.
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Q. Is a student visa guaranteed when an I-20 form is issued by a University?
A. A student visa is not guaranteed on the issuance of the I-20 alone as the applicant has to convince the US Consul that he is not an intending immigrant by showing proof of his permanent ties in India.
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Q. If sufficient funds are not available, can a loan from banks or other institutions help in getting a student visa?
A. The US Consul will have to be convinced about the mode of repayment of the loan by the applicant. Practically, if loans are shown, then getting a visa becomes difficult.
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Q. For a student visa, can a student be partially sponsored by a US-based sponsor and partly by an India-based sponsor?
A. The US Consul has to be convinced about the genuineness of the case. Prima facie, the case cannot be rejected because two sponsors are involved.
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Q. Do visas for students get rejected if the applicants have brothers and sisters in America?
A. This is an individual situation. The decision depends on a case-by-case basis. If the US Consul feels that the applicant is trying to get to the US in the guise of a student with possible support of siblings in America, he may be rejected. Likewise, if the applicant's brother or sister had gone to the US on an NIV and adjusted status to permanent visa, the applicant does become a "risk candidate" and it will be then left to the judgment of the
interviewing officer to decide.
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HAT CONSULS (Visa Officers) LOOK FOR while issuing a F1-visa (as per
http://www.state.gov)
Evidence of Residence Abroad
The consular officer may not issue a student visa unless satisfied that the applicant:
(1) Has a residence abroad (India),
(2) Has no intention of abandoning that residence, and
(3) Intends to depart from the United States upon completion of the course of study.
Applicants generally establish their ties abroad by presenting evidence of economic, social, and/or family ties in their homeland sufficient to induce them to leave the United States upon the completion of studies.
Evidence of English Proficiency
If the alien's Form -I20 indicates that proficiency in English is required for pursuing the selected course of study and that no arrangements have been made to overcome any English-language deficiency, the consular officer must determine whether the alien has the necessary proficiency. To this end, the officer must conduct the visa interview in
English and may require the applicant to read aloud from an English-language book,
periodical, or newspaper, and to restate in English in the applicant's own words what was
read. The applicant may also be asked to read aloud and explain several of the conditions
set forth in the Form I-20.
In the event that the applicant's language proficiency appears marginal, the officer may refer the applicant for language testing. Tests for this purpose will ordinarily be carried out by appropriate local groups, such as qualified host-country facilities. If the latter are used, the consular officer should be satisfied that the testing standards are sufficiently strict. However, if the local situation requires the consular officer to determine the language proficiency of applicants, materials such as the Test of English Language Proficiency (TEPL) may be available at the post. If not, they may be requested from the Department, through the post's Public Affairs Officer .
Determining Financial Status of F-1 Students The phrase "sufficient funds to cover expenses" referred to in 41.61(b)(2) REGS/STATS means the applicant must establish the unlikelihood of either becoming a public charge as defined in INA 212(a)(4) or of resorting to unauthorized U.S. employment for financial support. An applicant must provide documentary evidence that sufficient funds are, or will be, available to defray all expenses during the entire period of anticipated study. This
does not mean that the applicant must have cash immediately available to cover the entire period of intended study, which may last several years. The consular officer must, however, require credible documentary evidence that the applicant has enough readily available funds to meet all expenses for the first year of study. The officer also must be satisfied that, barring unforeseen circumstances, adequate funds will be available for each subsequent year of study from the same source or from one or more other specifically identified and reliable financial sources.
Funds From Source(s) Outside the United States Whenever an applicant indicates financial support from a source outside the United States
(for example, from parents living in the country of origin), the consular officer must determine whether there are restrictions on the transfer of funds from the country concerned. If so, the consular officer must require acceptable evidence that these restrictions will not prevent the funds from being made available during the period of the applicant's projected stay in the United States . Affidavits of Support or Other Assurances by an Interested Party Various factors are important in evaluating assurances of financial support by interested parties: Financial support to a student is not a mere formality to facilitate the applicant's entry into the United States, nor does it pertain only when the alien cannot otherwise provide adequate personal support. Rather, the sponsor must ensure that the applicant will not become a public charge or be compelled to take unauthorized employment while studying in the United States. This obligation commences when the alien enters the United States and continues until the alien's departure .
The consular officer must require documentary evidence to resolve any doubt that the financial status of the person giving the assurance is sufficient to substantiate the assertion that financial support is available to the applicant.
If the person giving the assurance is in the United States in nonimmigrant status, the consular officer must examine the evidence presented with exceptional care. Is the sponsor's financial situation sufficient to provide the funds without need to resort to unauthorized employment? Is it likely to worsen during the period of the commitment, possibly compelling the applicant or the sponsor to resort to unauthorized employment?

Will the nonimmigrant sponsor remain in the United States at least as long as the student?
The consular officer must also carefully evaluate the factors, which would motivate a sponsor to honor a commitment of financial support. If the sponsor is a close relative of the applicant, there may be a greater probability that the commitment will be honored
than if the sponsor is not a relative. Regardless of the relationship, the consular officer must be satisfied that the reasons prompting the offer of financial support make it likely the commitment will be fulfilled.
Funds From Fellowships and Scholarships for F-1 Student
A college or university may arrange for a nonimmigrant student to engage in research projects, give lectures, or perform other academic functions as part of a fellowship, scholarship or assistantship grant, provided the institution certifies that the student will also pursue a full course of study.
Educational Qualifications for F-1Students Consular officers are not expected to assume the role of guidance counselor to determine whether an applicant for an F-1 visa is qualified to pursue the desired course of study.

The institution will satisfy itself on the student's abilities before accepting the appcliant for enrollment. Consular officers should, however, be alert to three specific factors in this regard:
(1) The applicant has successfully completed a course of study equivalent to that
normally required of an American student seeking enrollment at the same level.
(2) Cases in which an applicant has submitted forged or altered transcripts of previous or related study or training which the institution has accepted as valid, and,
(3) Cases in which an institution has accepted an applicant's alleged previous course of study or training as the equivalent of its normal requirements when, in fact, such is not the case.
Relationship of Education or Training Sought To Existence of Ties Abroad
The fact that a student's proposed education or training would not appear to be useful in the homeland is not, in itself, a basis for refusing an F-1. It may, however, be a relevant factor in the overall assessment of the likelihood of the alien's return. This may be
particularly true where F-1 coursework is advanced far beyond local needs.

Some important facts on f1 visa

1. Visa issuance is a very objective decision, and is not subjective:

Every visa official has a list of requirements he looks for in a visa application. If they are
met, then, he issues the visa. If not, he doesn't .
It is how these requirements are met that makes a visa decision seem subjective. For instance, take the requirement of showing that you will return to India. If you provide
unambiguous pragmatic evidence pointing to reasons for return, he will have no reason not to grant a visa. US Visa Official Quote: "Give a rational, objective reason that even a banker would believe". If, on the other hand, you only play with words and have nothing substantial to show, it looks like a subjective decision, since it is based upon subjective
evidence.

2. Proper documents are only half the story:

Visa officials know that documents in India can be easily forged. So what is on paper is not enough. What you say, how you say it, matters a lot. Sometimes it can even make up for inadequate documentation. US Visa Official Quote: "Some people complain that we did not see their documents. Remember, if we go through your documents when you are standing there, then that is a negative sign. It means we don't believe you and are checking the documents for proof or for grounds to reject you. So not seeing your documents in front of you is a good thing for you."

3. Success Rates of Visa:

Success Rates of Visa Issuance (overall) is 60 %. i.e. 60% of all applicants, across all
categories, are issued visas. 40 % are rejected.
Success Rates of specific visas:
Visa - Success Rate
J1 Visa - 75 %
F1 Visa - 65 %
M1 Visa - 35 %
US Visa official Quote: "People who are between 18 and 37 and single attract our
attention".

4. How to increase your chances of Success?

A. Legitimate Student:

Show that you have a coherent plan of study. e.g. B.A. English in undergrad in India then
MS in Computer Science in US is not a coherent plan. B.E. Electronics &
Communications then M S (Telecommunications) is very clearly coherent. Also, try linking the plan of study to India. There should be a connection between past study and future plan.

B: Reputation of School:

The better the ranking of the school that you finally choose, the higher your chances of getting a visa. Visa officials have actually been quoted saying that they never cancelled the visa application of a Harvard or Stanford student (they don't even look at anything else if he has a Harvard offer). Of course, everybody doesn't get Harvard, but then if you
choose an obscure university, your chances of a visa decrease rrespondingly, as suspicion about your choice rises. The official thinks, "he's going there only to get to the US, there are better univs than this in India".

C: Exclusiveness of course:

If the course chosen is not offered in India, then it is a positive sign - as long as you can still show that it is logically related to your past studies. So you can't choose Evangelism after a BSc Chem. and then say, "it's not offered in India". Well, actually, you can but you have to show compelling reason why you want that subject.

D: Evidence of having researched all options:

Show all schools that you chose (say, printouts of web sites, Photostats of brochures), show clearly which ones you short listed and why, which ones you got offers from, which ones you chose and why. Basically, show yourself as a thorough student.

E: Proper documentation of previous study:

Have original copies of Board certificates, college degrees, diplomas, extra courses, etc.
Also have original results of GRE, A-GRE TOEFL, TSE and other standardized tests
handy.

F: Show proof of networking (if any) with professors:

If you have sent mails to(or written to) professors, have copies of the mails ready to show, to establish seriousness of intent to study and to show that you consider your education as an investment.

G: Multiple Offers:

If you have received offers from many universities, show that. Especially if you have a scholarship offer from a lower ranked university and are still going to a higher one, then attach proof of this with your application.

H: Be Systematic:

Carry a folder with the covering letter and all these papers in order, so that (a) you don't fumble around in front of the counter window looking for the right papers (b) you look
systematic and thorough.
Dear Friends - All the best for visa.
*******************************************************************
DETAILED VISA PHOTO GUIDELINES (with effect from March 17, 2003.)

New F1-Visa Photograph Requirements
The photograph format required for the nonimmigrant visa has changed. This new format
is similar to that required for U.S. passport processing. Submit your Nonimmigrant Visa
Application, DS-156 with the new photo format, as explained below.
The photograph for each visa applicant must be an unmounted, full-face photo, as
described below
1. The photograph must have been taken within the last six months
2. One (1) photograph must be submitted stapled or glued to the application DS-156.
3. Photo Size - The photo for each visa applicant submitted must measure:
2 by 2 inches (roughly 50 mm square) with the head centered in the frame.
The head (measured from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin) should measure
between 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm) with the eye level between 1 1/8 inch
to 1 3/8 inches (28 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of the photo
4. Photo Appearance - Photos should be printed without borders.
The photograph must be a full-face view in which the visa applicant is facing the camera
directly.
The applicant should not look down or to either side, and the face should cover about 50
percent of the photo area.
Side or angled views are NOT accepted.
5. The photograph may be in color or black and white, but must have only a white or offwhite
background. Photos with dark, busy, or patterned backgrounds will not be
accepted.
In general, the applicant's head, including both face and hair, should be shown from the
crown of the head to the tip of the chin on top and bottom and from hairline side-to-side.
It is preferable that ears be exposed.
6. Head coverings and hats are only acceptable due to religious beliefs, and even then,
may not cover any portion of the applicant's face .
7. Sunglasses or other wear, which detracts from the face, are not acceptable unless required for medical reasons (an eye patch, for example).
8. A photograph depicting a person wearing a traditional facemask or veil that does not permit adequate identification is not acceptable.
9. Photos of military, airline, or other personnel wearing hats are not acceptable.
Photographs of applicants wearing tribal, national costume, or other headgear not specifically religious in nature are not acceptable.
10. Digital Photos - Digitally reproduced photographs must be reproduced without discernible pixels or dot patterns. Photocopied photographs are NOT accepted.
11. Attaching the Photo to the DS-156 - Staple or glue the one photograph to the DS-156 in the designated space. If the photograph is stapled, staples should be placed as far away as possible from the applicant's face .
12. Do not enclose photographs in glassine or other types of envelopes. The photograph must be stapled or glued properly to the DS- 156 in the designated space.

Interview Preparation

Many applicants will be missing a beat or two at the thought of Visa Interview. Its like sudden rise in adrenaline levels, exciting, bewildering and intimidating.
So we thought of sharing some tips on interviews so that the whole affair can be carried away with a sense of peace.
Remember that there is no substitute for preparation. So prepare well for all aspects of the interview.

Preparing for the Interview:

* Go through respective consulate web site to know more about the rules and other
happenings, go through FAQ of F1 student visa.
* Everything a student wants to know about F1 visa is readily available in the consulate
web sites. Try to see and understand every link in the site, so that you will get 1st hand
information about everything, which will increase your comfortable level and confidence.
* Try to understand what the Visa Officer (VO) is expecting from you folks, in order to
issue F1-Visa for you.
* US consulate is your first chance of meeting the US officials on your way to USA. Its
time for you to look ahead and meet them in a dignified, balanced and professional way
and get the visa stamping to USA. But don't meet them shakily, nervous ly and loose the
chance of education in USA. Don't try to take any chance with visa. Be focused on your
goals and prepare well to reach them confidently.
* Behave like a True professional when meeting USA officials for interview.
* Some questions were given at the end of this mail for your information.
* Prepare answers to most commonly asked questions. Make sure your answers are
focusing on your achievements, skills, you being a sincere student, proof of having
sufficient funds and your intentions of coming back to India after completion of your
graduate and/or Research programs.
* Rehearse the answers to common and specific questions either by taping your answers or by attending a mock interview with your friends and have their opinions and reviews and if you feel you are lacking at some points, try to improve them till you become perfect.
* Know your strengths and weaknesses, and then try to overcome them in interviews by good preparation and practice beforehand. Practice makes perfect.
*Practice to speak clearly and slowly, naturally (as you speak always), so that interviewer can understand what you are saying. Your answers should reflect clarity of thought and clarity of your intentions. Don't talk too fast sacrificing clarity; Don't be dgrgaing either.
Avoid mannerisms such as "you see", "I mean", "Sort of" "Ya Ya". When you want to differ with VO or want to present a different view to VO, use phrases such as "Let us look at this from a different angle" and present your views.

* Read your financial documents thoroughly and ask yourself possible questions from
them. You should be able to defend and support your documents be it Academics,
qualifying exams scores and financial documents in all ways possible.
* Carry all documents in an order in a folder with multiple pouches (Like harmonium folder). So that you can put different set of documents into different pouches (like University documents set, Scores set, Marks sheets set, financial documents set, property documents set etc) it will be very easy for you to remove and present them to VO without any time waste, whenever asked for. The speed at which you are able to show the
relevant document whenever asked for also counts a lot.

At Interview

* Use formal dress to appear for interview.
* Use Executive clothing; deep and bright colors may not suit the occasion.Clothes have
to be clean and ironed to represent order and discipline.
* Carry only relevant documents.
* Do not present any certificates unless asked for.
* Remember to collect all the certificates given for perusal at the interview. And if you
had any doubts clarify there itself.
* Greet the interviewer first, even if VO is not listening or not looking at you.
* While answering questions remember to look at the interviewer instead of looking down. Keep continuous eye contact with visa officer throughout the interview.
* Avoid bad body language and mannerisms like touching moustache, scratching nose, or arranging hair or any kind of unwanted things as per the interview norms.
* Listen to questions carefully to comprehend. If you have not understood a question, politely request for a repeat.
* Give short answers unless asked for longer ones. If possible always be prepared with two sets of answers for questions, both long and short. First give short answer and if VO asks for details then give long answer or explain in detail. So that you will be still in comfort zone.

* Exude confidence but not arrogance.
* Mouth all words clearly and speak loud enough to hear.
* Answer immediately without wasting time.
* Avoid being too humorous or ironical in your answers. But little fun with good sense of humor is always welcome.
* Keep looking at the VO and never at other things in the room or at other counters.
* Don't become conscious of others looking at you or watching. Remember its your visa
and your future. Between VO and you no one exists.
* Give authentic information about any details connected with your documents.
Remember they can cross-verify any detail within no time.
* Answers should not be given in a raised voice even when the question comes in that manner. Remember VO will be having tough time too, with huge volumes of applicants and asking same questions and listening almost identical answers day in and day out.
They too will be under great pressure to issue a visa till the applicant intentions and arranging of funds are made clear to them. It's not that we should feel comfortable in interview, but in our personal opinion we should also make VO comfortable by presenting all facts a nd figures in a systematic and organized way of answering,
presenting documentary evidence whenever necessary or asked for.
* Never become desperate, wearisome and tiresome even if the interview is going in a long way than expected. Still try to maintain your composure, looking positive, confident and smiling.
* Answer questions in simple single sentences. Use a language that is easy to understand but formal in its usage.
* Avoid giving additional information unless asked for it.
* If you are complimented for your answers, achievements, scores and percentages, remember to thank the VO.
* Avoid repeating the phrases or words. Remember you have gone through GRE and TOEFL and speak accordingly.
* Keep a smiling face so as to welcome any questions.
* It is un-wise to contradict an answer through a subsequent answer. Always stick to the same answer whenever asked for.
* An applicants behavior should convince the VO about the quality of personality that the
candidate has.
* Avoid any exhibition of emotions other than the feelings of welcoming questions and
ready to give the answers.
* You have to make the answers short, to the point and precise.
* Develop Language skills including good pronunciation and effective expressions.
* Use simple yet forceful language.
* Practice to arrange facts logically.
* Meet difficult questions with a smile.
* Don't be unduly emotional during interview .
* If you present an argument give facts to support it.
* Continue to be pleasant throughout interview and a smile helps a lot.
* Check your body language.
* Be polite: Show no signs of arrogance or superiority.
* Never give an impression that you are desperate to go to USA.
* Never give an impression that you are confused at any point of time.
* Don't get disheartened if any of your views are answers were were shunned by VO or
VO not listening to you. Sometimes VO wants to test your patience. Just stay positive.
* Just Be confident of your success. Give answers confidently, boldly, and visa will be
yours.
On final note, thank the interviewer for his time.

Some More Tips: (suggested by students in groups)

* Learn about research areas in your major at your university.
* Be confident and positive throughout, and apply presence of mind.
* Don't contradict your previous answer in your next answer.
* Have a good memory of CA statement b4 going to consulate � Various sources of incomes and amounts.
* Stick to same answers even if Vo is asking the same questions again and again.
* Write your name address phone no passport no at back of DD's or write as per your consulate rules
* Sign i-20 before going to consulate.
* Be relaxed and don't show that you are desperate to go to US .
* Avoid calling the officers Sir excessively, which will be irritating to them.
* Avoid saying pardon, come again, I didn't get you, Just say something expecting question based on document in his hand. * If you guessed wrong question he will question you again.
* Watch the lips of the person while you are at counter as if you are not able to listen to them cause of bad quality of speakers, you can at-least guess question from lip movements, at worst you can at-least understand VO is asking you something.
* Don't give more information than needed or asked by them .
* Answer only to question; do not try to justify your answer unless asked.
* Do not let your answers contradict values from your Statements. Be careful in this
regard.
* Study thoroughly the complete documentation mentioned in the CA statement, especially if it is family friend and be prepared for questions on them like what is the sponsor's income, what is the value of the property, how much of the funds is in liquid / semi-liquid form.
* Be prepared with convincing / strong reasons for returning to your homeland. (Present
and Future employment options of your chosen field, Family, business, financial set-up,
etc.)
* Make Eye contact. Look at VO when he/she is speaking. Don't look away while answering or listening.
* Act natural.
* Listen to the question carefully and let the interviewer complete the question before you answer.
* Answer confidently and honestly.
* Show enthusiasm and optimism throughout the interview.
* Admit honestly, if you don't know the answer. Nobody knows everything. However,
explain that you are willing and have the ability to learn, given a chance or say something
like " I am slightly out of touch in that area..."
* Bring up the key words that the VO is looking for from you like "after coming back to India" or "when I come back to India after MS", during the interview, whenever possible.
* Do have positive attitude and remember attitude is everything.
* Do not feel nervous. Nobody is going to hurt you.
* Do not be overaggressive.
* Do not jump to answers after listening to half the question
* Do not over answer or under answer. Answer to the point.
* Don't have negative attitude or don't be pessimistic regarding the outcom e.

Some sample behaviors of people who take initiatives for which VO is searching for in an interview are - whether applicant:

* Knows how to answer questions.
* Knows how to deal with uncertainty.
* Exudes (or shows) confidence and professionalism.
* Takes advantage of opportunities to learn.
* Finds ways to stay motivated.
* Does what it takes to get the job done.
* Shows commitment.
* Self Confidence, Goal Oriented, Focused, Driven, and Sense of Conviction
* Willingness to learn new things.
* Establish Rapport.

Final Note:

* Just be cool, confident and vibe well with VO.
* Whenever there's a chance, flash a smeil.
* Whenever an embarrassing question was asked, and you don't know how to answer,
just flash a smile, have two invisible deep breaths and start saying the relevant thing.
* Be positive in all actions and expect positive outcome. Have good body language.
* Even the interview is going the other way also don't loose your confidence. Things will be on-track again in your favor if you are confident and stay positive.
* Don't give big answers, just precise and to-the-point answers will do, unless asked for.
* No need to explain tons and tons of things.
* Have a precise answer for how you are arranging funds. Give a gist of your sponsor's financial position and if VO asks to explain, then only give detailed answer for that. Be prepared with a good answer, both precise one and a detailed one.
* Don't show any document until asked for .
* Most important thing is presence of mind and with that you should be able to get the
interview always on track. It's only in you how to get the interview back on track .

Golden Rules for Visa:

* Looking good and confident.
* Looking disciplined and organized.
* Sounding natural in accent and communication.
* Maintaining eye-to-eye contact with VO throughout interview.
* Staying positive throughout.
* Clarity of thought in expressing views.
* Speaking Loud with confidence.
* Having good presence of mind.
* Showing good knowledge about your area of interest.
* Having good and credible future plans.
* Proving you as a serious student in studies.
* A little bit of sense of humor.
* Exude professionalism in whatever you do &
* Smile and put Visa Officer at ease.
Sample Visa Interview Questions:
* Why the specified University.
* Which Universities did you apply to? (Both admits and rejects)?
* Show me your GRE scorecard.
* Where did you Undergraduate?
* Who is sponsoring you?
* What does your father do?
* What is your father's Income?
* How many brothers and sisters do you have?
* Do you have any relatives in USA?
* What will you do after completing MS?
* Show your Experience Certificate. (If you are going to studies after some work
experience)
* Why Study in USA.
* Did you got any Scholarships?
* Why haven't you got any scholarship?
* Have you got any Loans?
* Show your Pass Books/Bank statements.
* What is your Undergraduate GPA/Percentage?
* Parents retired? Then how will they pay?
* Tell about your university.
* Mention some professor names
* Tell me how can you prove that you are going to come back?
* Where did your brother/parents complete their studies?
* Why are you leaving your current job? (If you are working)
* Have you ever been to US?
* What will you do after coming back to Home?
* You have so...brothers and sisters so your fathers saving are for all, Then how will he/
you finance?
* Where do your parents live (If they live in USA)?
* Do you know anyone (in USA) / in your University?
* What will you do if your Visa is rejected?
* Will you come back to home during summers?
* What do you think? Why University is giving Scholarship to you...
* Why do you wish to study in the US and not in India?
* If you have changed field of specialization, (for ex. If you are BE Mechanical and
opting for MS in computer science) then what brought about the change?
* What steps have you taken to ensure that you will be able to perform well in the new
field you wish to change to?
* What do you plan to study at the university?
* How many universities did you apply for?
* Which universities accepted you?
* Why did you select this particular university?
* What are your plans after graduation?
* How will you finance your education funds for 2 years or 3 years? (generally you have
to prove that you can fund the first year of your education but we suggest that you be
prepared with this answer)?
* Do you have a brother / sister, or any other relative already at this university?
In some cases VO's have asked questions like
* Tell me about yourself?
* What are your hobbies?
* What does success mean to you?
* Where do you plan to be in 5 years from now?
* Tell about your achievements?
* What are your strengths?
* What are your weaknesses?
* How did you prepare for this interview?
* What will you do if you your visa was rejected?
* Describe your dream career?
* What are you looking for, from life?
Give answers to the above questions in relation to, or resulting career after your masters
program and your coming back to India context only.

**** WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY VISA IS REJECTED ****

What should I do if my Visa application is rejected?

If the application has been rejected for reasons that are rectifiable (such as incomplete documentation or discrepancy in passport entries or the validity of the passport not extending long enough), these can be rectified and a fresh application made.
If the application has been rejected for the reason that you have not shown sufficient financial means, providing additional proof of finance can also rectify this mistake.
If the application has been rejected for any other reason, you can appeal to a higher functionary in the Consular Office. The procedure of such appeal will be available in the Consular Office itself. The appeal will usually be heard on the same day or the next and a decision given thereafter.
Even if your first appeal is rejected, you can make a written second appeal with the required documents, without your having to appear in person before the appellate authority. We know of a number of cases in which students who have been denied visa twice earlier were granted the Visa in pursuance of the written appeal. Therefore, you should try this possibility also if it becomes necessary.
Do not be nervous when you go for the Visa interview. Remember that there is a shortage of technical manpower of superior standards in USA and in spite of the seemingly difficult Visa formalities, the US government in fact wants persons with talent of high caliber to go for higher studies in USA and then take up jobs there so as to make positive contributions to its economy. So, if you have such credentials, you stand a very good chance of securing the Visa.
Even if one your close relatives in USA or any other foreign country is willing to extend financial support for your studies in USA, it is preferable for him/her to send you funds required for the first year to India once you get a favorable decision on admission and before you go for the Visa interview. This will enable you to tell the Consular officer
that you have the sufficient financial resources in India itself to meet your expenses.
Showing a distant relative such as uncle/aunt/cousin etc. as a sponsor can also lead to problems at the visa interview, because US authorities would not normally believe that anyone other than one's own parents or a brother would spend lakhs of rupees on your education. Therefore, even if your uncle is willing to help you financially, it is advisable that he transfers the money in your name a couple of months before you go for the Visa interview, and you show it as your own.
Some universities insist that at the time you submit your application for admission, you should also produce a certificate from your bank that you or your sponsor have sufficient funds to meet your expenses for the full course of study. Other univers

F1 VISA Preparation

2009-05-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

Many applicants will be missing a beat or two at the thought of Visa Interview. Its like sudden rise in adrenaline levels, exciting, bewildering and intimidating.

So we thought of sharing some tips on interviews so that the whole affair can be carried away with a sense of peace.

Remember that there is no substitute for preparation. So prepare well for all aspects of the interview.
Preparing for the Interview:

* Go through respective consulate web site to know more about the rules and other happenings, go through FAQ of F1 student visa.

* Everything a student wants to know about F1 visa is readily available in the consulate web sites. Try to see and understand every link in the site, so that you will get 1st hand information about everything, which will increase your comfortable level and confidence.

* Try to understand what the Visa Officer (VO) is expecting from you folks, in order to issue F1-Visa for you.

* US consulate is your first chance of meeting the US officials on your way to USA. Its time for you to look ahead and meet them in a dignified, balanced and professional way and get the visa stamping to USA. But don't meet them shakily, nervously and loose the chance of education in USA. Don't try to take any chance with visa. Be focused on your goals and prepare well to reach them confidently.

* Behave like a True professional when meeting USA officials for interview.

* Some questions were given at the end of this mail for your information.

* Prepare answers to most commonly asked questions. Make sure your answers are focusing on your achievements, skills, you being a sincere student, proof of having sufficient funds and your intentions of coming back to India after completion of your graduate and/or Research programs.

* Rehearse the answers to common and specific questions either by taping your answers or by attending a mock interview with your friends and have their opinions and reviews and if you feel you are lacking at some points, try to improve them till you become perfect.

* Know your strengths and weaknesses, and then try to overcome them in interviews by good preparation and practice beforehand. Practice makes perfect.

*Practice to speak clearly and slowly, naturally (as you speak always), so that interviewer can understand what you are saying. Your answers should reflect clarity of thought and clarity of your intentions. Don't talk too fast sacrificing clarity; Don't be dragging either. Avoid mannerisms such as "you see", "I mean", "Sort of" "Ya Ya". When you want to differ with VO or want to present a different view to VO, use phrases such as "Let us look at this from a different angle" and present your views.

* Read your financial documents thoroughly and ask yourself possible questions from them. You should be able to defend and support your documents be it Academics, qualifying exams scores and financial documents in all ways possible.

* Carry all documents in an order in a folder with multiple pouches (Like harmonium folder). So that you can put different set of documents into different pouches (like University documents set, Scores set, Marks sheets set, financial documents set, property documents set etc) it will be very easy for you to remove and present them to VO without any time waste, whenever asked for. The speed at which you are able to show the relevant document whenever asked for also counts a lot.

At Interview
* Use formal dress to appear for interview.
* Use Executive clothing; deep and bright colors may not suit the occasion.Clothes have to be clean and ironed to represent order and discipline.
* Carry only relevant documents.
* Do not present any certificates unless asked for.
* Remember to collect all the certificates given for perusal at the interview. And if you had any doubts clarify there itself.
* Greet the interviewer first, even if VO is not listening or not looking at you.
* While answering questions remember to look at the interviewer instead of looking down. Keep continuous eye contact with visa officer throughout the interview.

* Avoid bad body language and mannerisms like touching moustache, scratching nose, or arranging hair or any kind of unwanted things as per the interview norms.
* Listen to questions carefully to comprehend. If you have not understood a question, politely request for a repeat.
* Give short answers unless asked for longer ones. If possible always be prepared with two sets of answers for questions, both long and short. First give short answer and if VO asks for details then give long answer or explain in detail. So that you will be still in comfort zone.
* Exude confidence but not arrogance.
* Mouth all words clearly and speak loud enough to hear.
* Answer immediately without wasting time.
* Avoid being too humorous or ironical in your answers. But little fun with good sense of humor is always welcome.
* Keep looking at the VO and never at other things in the room or at other counters.
* Don't become conscious of others looking at you or watching. Remember its your visa and your future. Between VO and you no one exists.
* Give authentic information about any details connected with your documents. Remember they can cross-verify any detail within no time.
* Answers should not be given in a raised voice even when the question comes in that manner. Remember VO will be having tough time too, with huge volumes of applicants and asking same questions and listening almost identical answers day in and day out. They too will be under great pressure to issue a visa till the applicant intentions and arranging of funds are made clear to them. It's not that we should feel comfortable in interview, but in our personal opinion we should also make VO comfortable by presenting all facts and figures in a systematic and organized way of answering, presenting documentary evidence whenever necessary or asked for.

* Never become desperate, wearisome and tiresome even if the interview is going in a long way than expected. Still try to maintain your composure, looking positive, confident and smiling.
* Answer questions in simple single sentences. Use a language that is easy to understand but formal in its usage.
* Avoid giving additional information unless asked for it.
* If you are complimented for your answers, achievements, scores and percentages, remember to thank the VO.
* Avoid repeating the phrases or words. Remember you have gone through GRE and TOEFL and speak accordingly.
* Keep a smiling face so as to welcome any questions.
* It is un-wise to contradict an answer through a subsequent answer. Always stick to the same answer whenever asked for.
* An applicants behavior should convince the VO about the quality of personality that the candidate has.
* Avoid any exhibition of emotions other than the feelings of welcoming questions and ready to give the answers.
* You have to make the answers short, to the point and precise.

* Develop Language skills including good pronunciation and effective expressions.

* Use simple yet forceful language.

* Practice to arrange facts logically.

* Meet difficult questions with a smile.

* Don't be unduly emotional during interview.

* If you present an argument give facts to support it.

* Continue to be pleasant throughout interview and a smile helps a lot.

* Check your body language.

* Be polite: Show no signs of arrogance or superiority.

* Never give an impression that you are desperate to go to USA.

* Never give an impression that you are confused at any point of time.

* Don't get disheartened if any of your views are answers were were shunned by VO or VO not listening to you. Sometimes VO wants to test your patience. Just stay positive.

* Just Be confident of your success. Give answers confidently, boldly, and visa will be yours.

On final note, thank the interviewer for his time.

Some More Tips: (suggested by students in groups)
* Learn about research areas in your major at your university.
* Be confident and positive throughout, and apply presence of mind.
* Don't contradict your previous answer in your next answer.
* Have a good memory of CA statement b4 going to consulate � Various sources of incomes and amounts.

* Stick to same answers even if Vo is asking the same questions again and again.
* Write your name address phone no passport no at back of DD's or write as per your consulate rules
* Sign i-20 before going to consulate.
* Be relaxed and don't show that you are desperate to go to US.
* Avoid calling the officers Sir excessively, which will be irritating to them.
* Avoid saying pardon, come again, I didn't get you, Just say something expecting question based on document in his hand. * If you guessed wrong question he will question you again.
* Watch the lips of the person while you are at counter as if you are not able to listen to them cause of bad quality of speakers, you can at-least guess question from lip movements, at worst you can at-least understand VO is asking you something.
* Don't give more information than needed or asked by them.
* Answer only to question; do not try to justify your answer unless asked.
* Do not let your answers contradict values from your Statements. Be careful in this regard.
* Study thoroughly the complete documentation mentioned in the CA statement, especially if it is family friend and be prepared for questions on them like what is the sponsor's income, what is the value of the property, how much of the funds is in liquid / semi-liquid form.

* Be prepared with convincing / strong reasons for returning to your homeland. (Present and Future employment options of your chosen field, Family, business, financial set-up, etc.)
* Make Eye contact. Look at VO when he/she is speaking. Don't look away while answering or listening.
* Act natural.
* Listen to the question carefully and let the interviewer complete the question before you answer.
* Answer confidently and honestly.
* Show enthusiasm and optimism throughout the interview.
* Admit honestly, if you don't know the answer. Nobody knows everything. However, explain that you are willing and have the ability to learn, given a chance or say something like " I am slightly out of touch in that area..."
* Bring up the key words that the VO is looking for from you like "after coming back to India" or "when I come back to India after MS", during the interview, whenever possible.
* Do have positive attitude and remember attitude is everything.
* Do not feel nervous. Nobody is going to hurt you.
* Do not be overaggressive.
* Do not jump to answers after listening to half the question
* Do not over answer or under answer. Answer to the point.
* Don't have negative attitude or don't be pessimistic regarding the outcome.

Some sample behaviors of people who take initiatives for which VO is searching for in an interview are - whether applicant:

* Knows how to answer questions.
* Knows how to deal with uncertainty.
* Exudes (or shows) confidence and professionalism.
* Takes advantage of opportunities to learn.
* Finds ways to stay motivated.
* Does what it takes to get the job done.
* Shows commitment.
* Self Confidence, Goal Oriented, Focused, Driven, and Sense of Conviction
* Willingness to learn new things.
* Establish Rapport.

Final Note:
* Just be cool, confident and vibe well with VO.
* Whenever there's a chance, flash a smile.
* Whenever an embarrassing question was asked, and you don't know how to answer, just flash a smile, have two invisible deep breaths and start saying the relevant thing.
* Be positive in all actions and expect positive outcome. Have good body language.
* Even the interview is going the other way also don't loose your confidence. Things will be on-track again in your favor if you are confident and stay positive.
* Don't give big answers, just precise and to-the-point answers will do, unless asked for.
* No need to explain tons and tons of things.
* Have a precise answer for how you are arranging funds. Give a gist of your sponsor's financial position and if VO asks to explain, then only give detailed answer for that. Be prepared with a good answer, both precise one and a detailed one.
* Don't show any document until asked for.
* Most important thing is presence of mind and with that you should be able to get the interview always on track. It's only in you how to get the interview back on track.

Golden Rules for Visa:
* Looking good and confident.
* Looking disciplined and organized.
* Sounding natural in accent and communication.
* Maintaining eye-to-eye contact with VO throughout interview.
* Staying positive throughout.
* Clarity of thought in expressing views.
* Speaking Loud with confidence.
* Having good presence of mind.
* Showing good knowledge about your area of interest.
* Having good and credible future plans.
* Proving you as a serious student in studies.
* A little bit of sense of humor.
* Exude professionalism in whatever you do &
* Smile and put Visa Officer at ease.

Sample Visa Interview Questions:
* Why the specified University.
* Which Universities did you apply to? (Both admits and rejects)?

* Show me your GRE scorecard.
* Where did you Undergraduate?
* Who is sponsoring you?
* What does your father do?
* What is your father's Income?
* How many brothers and sisters do you have?
* Do you have any relatives in USA?
* What will you do after completing MS?
* Show your Experience Certificate. (If you are going to studies after some work experience)
* Why Study in USA.
* Did you got any Scholarships?

* Why haven't you got any scholarship?
* Have you got any Loans?
* Show your Pass Books/Bank statements.
* What is your Undergraduate GPA/Percentage?
* Parents retired? Then how will they pay?
* Tell about your university.
* Mention some professor names
* Tell me how can you prove that you are going to come back?
* Where did your brother/parents complete their studies?
* Why are you leaving your current job? (If you are working)
* Have you ever been to US?
* What will you do after coming back to Home?
* You have so...brothers and sisters so your fathers saving are for all, Then how will he/ you finance?
* Where do your parents live (If they live in USA)?
* Do you know anyone (in USA) / in your University?
* What will you do if your Visa is rejected?
* Will you come back to home during summers?
* What do you think? Why University is giving Scholarship to you...

* Why do you wish to study in the US and not in India?
* If you have changed field of specialization, (for ex. If you are BE Mechanical and opting for MS in computer science) then what brought about the change?
* What steps have you taken to ensure that you will be able to perform well in the new field you wish to change to?
* What do you plan to study at the university?
* How many universities did you apply for?
* Which universities accepted you?
* Why did you select this particular university?
* What are your plans after graduation?
* How will you finance your education funds for 2 years or 3 years? (generally you have to prove that you can fund the first year of your education but we suggest that you be prepared with this answer)?
* Do you have a brother / sister, or any other relative already at this university?

In some cases VO's have asked questions like

* Tell me about yourself?

* What are your hobbies?

* What does success mean to you?

* Where do you plan to be in 5 years from now?

* Tell about your achievements?

* What are your strengths?

* What are your weaknesses?

* How did you prepare for this interview?

* What will you do if you your visa was rejected?

* Describe your dream career?

* What are you looking for, from life?

Give answers to the above questions in relation to, or resulting career after your masters program and your coming back to India context only.

"May the force be with you all and may all your dreams come true."

All the best & Good Luck !

The Complete Guide to F1 Visa Application

2009-05-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

DISCLAIMER : I have written this from my experience at Mumbai Consulate. I believe most of it is generic. If there are any Consulate specific changes, please let me know.

Step 1: Pay Visa Fee at HDFC Bank :

How much?
Visa fee : Rs. 6943/- ($131 @ Rs.53 each) + Service Charge : Rs. 374/- = Rs. 7317/-

Where do I pay this fee?
At select HDFC Bank Outlets. List can be found here : https://www.vfs-usa.co.in/ApplnForms/HDF...sList.aspx

What documents do I need?
Just a photocopy of the first page of your passport.

How do I pay this fee?
Three options :
1) Cash (Highly Recommended)
2) Demand Draft
3) HDFC Bank Cheque
Drafts and Cheques to be made in favour of "HDFC BANK A/C VFS" (This is true for Mumbai Consulate. Please check for other cities)

What's next?
After you pay the fee, you will get two copies of the receipt - One Pink and One Blue. Keep these safely. We will see what to do with them later.
There will be a barcode sticker on both receipts with the same number. Please note this number since you will need it to login to the VFS site.
Your barcode number will be activated two working days after you pay the fee. You cannot login to the forms till then.

Step 2 : Pay SEVIS Fee :

What is SEVIS and why do I need to pay this?
If you want an F1 visa, you have to pay it. For further queries, visit http://www.fmjfee.com.

How much is the SEVIS fee?
$200

How do I pay this fee?
You can pay this fee online by credit card at http://www.fmjfee.com.
You will need to fill Form I-901 before paying the fee.
Please keep your printer ready to print the receipt after paying the fee. Print atleast 2 copies.

What documents do I need?
You will need your I-20 to fill the I-901 form. If your I-20 has been issued, but you havent received it yet, ask your university to send you your SEVIS number and School Code. You can then fill the form.

After payment, do I opt for Standard Delivery or Expedited Delivery?
Standard Delivery. You do not need the I-797 receipt that they send you for the visa application. If you have too much money, select Expedited Delivery (Around $35).

Step 3 : Fill The Visa Application Forms :

How do I fill these forms?
Go to http://www.vfs-usa.co.in. Click on 'Apply for a new Non-Immigrant Visa'. Follow the process and enter your Barcode Sticker Code when asked.
After successfully logging in, You will see 4 Items :
1) DS-156
2) DS-157
3) DS-158
4) SEVIS Information

We will now deal with these forms one by one. Make sure you read the guidelines provided with each form (Link provided on top right corner of form) before you procced in any case.
IMPORTANT : Use only Internet Explorer to fill these forms. They are not compatible with Mozilla Firefox. I have not tried any other browsers.
Please go through the list of required fields below before you start filling the forms. Keep the necessary information ready accordingly so that you can fill the forms online very quickly.

DS-156 Form : Non-Immigrant Visa Application Form :

Fill up the following fields as applicable. I have added notes where necessary.
1) Passport Number
2) Place of Issuance
3) Issuing Country
4) Issuance Date
5) Expiration Date
6) Surnames (As in Passport)
7) First Name and Middle Names (As in Passport) : Write the Given Name on your passport here. If your middle name has not been included in the Given Name field on your passport, do NOT write it.
8) Other Surnames Used
9) Other First and Middle Names Used
10) Date of Birth (dd-mmm-yyyy)
11) Place of Birth
12) Nationality
13) Sex
14) National Identification Number : Usually write NA for India
15) Home address
16) Home telephone number
17) Marital status
18) Spouse's Full Name
19) Spouse's DOB
20) Name and address of Present Employer or School : If unemployed and not studying, leave blank
21) Present Occupation : If studying write 'Student'. If unemployed, NA
22) When do you intend to arrive in the US? : Write expected date of travel. Should be within 30 days of date mentioned on I-20 item no.5.
23) E-mail address
24) What Address will you stay in the US? : Write only City and State of your university if address has not been decided.
25) Name and Telephone Nos. of Person in US wou till be staying with or visiting for Tourism or Business : Write SELF under Name if you are a student. Leave the other fields blank.
26) How long do you intend to stay in the US? : Write I-20 Course Duration here
27) What is the purpose of your trip? : STUDY
28) Who will pay for your trip? : Write source of funds as mentioned on I-20
29) Have you ever been in the US? When? For How Long?
30) Have you ever been issued a US Visa?
31) Have you ever been refused a US Visa?
32) Do you intend to work in the US?
33) Do you intend to study in the US? : YES. Write University address as on I-20
34) Names and Relationships of persons travelling with you
35) Has your US visa ever been cancelled or revoked?
36) Has anyone ever filed an Immigrant Visa Petition on your behalf?
37) Are any of the following persons in the US or do they have US Legal Permanent Residence or US Citizenship? Husband/wife, Fiance/Fiancee, Father/Mother, Son/Daughter, Brother/Sister
38) Fill as applicable. Ideally all answers should ne NO.
39) Was this application prepared by another person on your behalf?
40) Application Prepared by :
41) I certfy...

DS-157 Form : Supplemental Non-Immigrant Visa Application :

1) Last Name
2) First Name
3) Full Name in Native Alphabet : To be filled in after printing the form
4) Clan or Tribe Name
5) Spouse's Name : NA if not married
6) Father's Full Name
7) Mother's Full Name
8) Full Name and Address of Contact Person or Organization in the United States (include telephone number) : Write Univ address and phone number of grad advisor
9) List of all countries you have entered in the past 10 years
10) List all countries that have ever issued you a passport
11) Have you ever lost a passport or had one stolen?
12) Not including current employer, lost your last two employers
13) List all professional, social and charitable organizations to which you belong/belonged or contribute/contributed or work/worked
14) Do you have any specialized skills or training, including firearms, exlposives, nuclear, biological or chemical experience?
15) Have you ever performed military service?
16) Have you ever been in an armed conflict, either as a participant or victim?
17) List all educational institutions you attended. Include vocational institutions but not elementary schools : Mention all colleges after grade 10.
18) Have you made any specific travel arrangements?

DS-158 Form : Contact Information and Work History for Non-Immigrant Visa Applicant :

1) Full Name
2) Date of Birth
3) Place of Birth
4) Permanent Address
5) Full name and address of spouse
6) Full names and addresses of children, parents and siblings
7) List atleast two contacts in applicants country (no immediate family members or other relatives)
Work Experience - Present
Work Experience - Previous

SEVIS Details :
Fill up all fields as per your SEVIS receipt.

In case you still have doubts regarding the DS forms, visit this thread : http://www.edulix.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=71375

IMPORTANT :
1) You can save your forms and return to them for making changes upto seven days from the time you started filling them. After seven days, the forms are cleared and you need to start filling them again.
2) You CANNOT book a date before you have finished filling all the forms and submitted them. A tick mark will appear next to the completed form. Till all the 4 forms are filled, there wont be an option to continue.
3) After submitting the forms online, the PDF versions of the forms will be generated along with your Interview Appointment letter. Please print these out, as they need to be submitted to VFS atleast 5 working days before interview.
4) If you want to make changes AFTER booking a date, you CAN do so, upto 5 working days before the visa interview. In this case, you just need to make the necessary changes, resubmit the forms and print the new PDFs generated.

VERY IMPORTANT :
1) Print the two pages each on the 156 and 158 forms back to back.

Step 4 : Submission of Documents to VFS Office :

After submission of the forms online, the folllowing sheet will be available as a PDF for printing.

Quote:IMPORTANT: - SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS AT A US VFS APPLICATION CENTRE
MINIMUM 5 WORKING DAYS BEFORE INTERVIEW
1. Please ensure all documents are enclosed as per the checklist below.
2. You or your representative can submit in your application pack at any of the application
centers in West India on any working day between 0800 hrs to 1300 hrs and 1400 hrs to
1500 hrs .Documents submitted by COURIER / POST will not be accepted
3. Your forms must be submitted at a US Visa Application Centre in Ahmedabad, Pune or
Mumbai. If you are submitting your forms to our application centre in Mumbai, you must do so
at least 3 working days in advance. E.g. If your interview is scheduled for a Friday, you must
submit your documents latest by the preceding Tuesday, provided all days in between are
working days. If you are submitting your forms to our application centres in Ahmedabad or
Pune, you must do so at least 4 working days in advance. E.g. If your interview is scheduled
for a Friday, you must submit your documents latest by the preceding Monday, provided all
days in between are working days.
4. It is recommended that you submit your documents to us as soon as you schedule your
Interview.
5. Please be forewarned that an INABILITY to turn in your application pack by the stipulated
deadline would result in cancellation of your appointment.
Please confirm that following documents have been attached by ticking the check box alongside: -
Visa class: F or M or J
1. DS-156 in original signed and with photo affixed. O
2. DS-157 in original. if you are 15-55 years of age O
3. DS-158 in original, signed. O
4. Photocopy of Form I-20 / DS2019. O
5. Proof of payment of SEVIS Fee Receipt I-901. O
6. Photocopy of passport data pages (1st and last page). O
7. Photocopy of the passport pages bearing “Observation” or “Remarks”. O
8. Photocopy of Interview appointment letter. O
9. Original HDFC fee receipt (Blue copy). O
10. Dependents applicants: photocopy of principal applicant’s Form I-20 / DS2019 O
11. Dependants must submit a photocopy of the principal applicant’s visa O
12. Applicants applying for a visa renewal are required to submit a clear O
photocopy of the previous visa
Note: Do not submit the PINK COPY of the HDFC receipt. Please store it carefully.
You will be required to produce it at the Consulate on the day of your interview

(Signature of the applicant as per passport)

Arrange all the documents given in the above list in order. Attach the above sheet with your signature and the attached documents ticked on top.
NOTE :
1) Remember to get your photos clicked as per the following specifications : https://www.vfs-usa.co.in/ApplnForms/Rul...ations.asp
2) SIGN on the first page of your I-20 before taking a photocopy.

After submitting these documents, you will receive a printed receipt. This is not really important.

Also remember to carry Rs.250/- with you while submitting the above documents, so that you can buy a Stars and Stripes Lounge Pass. Although it is not compulsary, it is highly recommended.

F-1 Visa Index

2009-05-27T03:06:00.001-07:00

■Proof of Funds
■Form I-20
■Form I-539
■Form I-94
■DSO
■USCIS
■F-1 Visa Status
■Other Types of Visa
■SEVIS
■USCIS Fee Schedule (pdf)

What to bring to graduate school?!

2009-05-27T03:04:00.001-07:00

Well just remember you are going to a first world country. Just bring the very basic essentials you would need. Do not carry a lot of excess luggage. Most of the cities are very diverse in culture and have a lot of other cultural shops.

Look at the respective ISA web sites for that particular university and they all typically have links to what to bring with you. If they have to fail to have that link, click on the link below. Its very comprehensive and should be sufficient for all your queries.

What to do after I get my visa ?

Common books to buy for Computer Science, & Engieering students ?

Common books to buy for Mechanical,Industrial,Electrical & Civil students ?

If you have any interesting articles or fascination experiences on your first arrival, please feel free to email the editor.

12 Golden rules for VISA

2009-05-27T03:01:00.000-07:00

1. Looking good and confident

2. Looking disciplined and organized.

3. Sounding natural in accent and communication.

4. Maintaining eye-to-eye contact with VO throughout interview.

5. Staying positive throughout.

6. Clarity of thought in expressing views.

7. Speaking loud with confident.

8. Having good presence of mind.

9. Showing good knowledge about your area of interest.

10. Having good and credible future plans.

11. Prove you are a serious student.

12. Exude professionalism in whatever you do & smile and put VO at ease

Admissions without GRE scores

2009-05-26T03:19:00.000-07:00

I had come across many posts on different forums where students ask for universities which do not require GRE scores...

There are many universities which do not require GRE scores. Many coaching sites and forums display the names of universities which do not require GRE scores from US citizens or from students who had done there undergraduation from US. However, for international students submitting of GRE scores is mandatory with the application, in these institutions.

Below is the list of universities which do not require GRE scores from international students too. For more details click on the link below the name of the respective university.

1. University of Dayton - GRE is optional for all engineering programs
http://gradadmission.udayton.edu/application/adm_scores.asp

2. Stevens Institute of Technology
http://www.stevens.edu/gradadmissions/programs/index.html

3. New Mexico state University
http://gradschool.nmsu.edu/admit-req.htm

4. University of Nebraska-Lincoln
http://engineering.unl.edu/academicunits/IMSE/graduate/graduate-FAQ.shtml

5. University of Pittsburg - GRE score not required for Materials Science and Engineering
http://www.engr.pitt.edu/admissions/graduate/gre.html

6. University of Northern Virginia in Manassas, VA
http://www.unva.edu/admin_req2.htm

7. Purdue University West Lafayette, Indiana
http://www.cs.purdue.edu/academic_programs/graduate/admission/requirements.sxhtml

8. MIT-massachusetts institute of technology - Electrical Engineering and computer science do not require GRE scores
http://www.eecs.mit.edu/grad/faqs.html#1

9. California State University Sacramento - don't require GRE for Civil Engineering
http://www.csus.edu/gradstudies/Faqa.htm#GRE_GMAT_MAT

10. University of Bridgeport, Connecticut - Master's of Science in Computer Science (M.S.), Computer Engineering (M.S.), Electrical Engineering (M.S.), Mechanical Engineering (M.S.), and Technology Management (M.S.) - GRE is recommended but not required
http://www.bridgeport.edu/pages/3664.asp

11. Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma - OCU does not require the GRE or GMAT examinations for entrance into the graduate programs, except for the MBA and MSA programs, which require the GMAT
http://www.okcu.edu/admissions/iso/questions.aspx

Top 50 Engineering Schools ( US )

2009-05-26T03:18:00.000-07:00

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 22.2%
Average GRE verbal: 574
Average GRE quantitative: 779
Average GRE analytical: 751

2. Stanford University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 31.2%
Average GRE verbal: 573
Average GRE quantitative: 781
Average GRE analytical: 737

3. University of California--Berkeley

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 18.4%
Average GRE verbal: 553
Average GRE quantitative: 771
Average GRE analytical: 729

4. Georgia Institute of Technology

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 34.9%
Average GRE verbal: 538
Average GRE quantitative: 763
Average GRE analytical: 692

5. University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 27.3%
Average GRE verbal: 538
Average GRE quantitative: 772
Average GRE analytical: 741

6. Carnegie Mellon University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 22.3%
Average GRE verbal: 567
Average GRE quantitative: 775
Average GRE analytical: N/A

7. California Institute of Technology

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 9.8%
Average GRE verbal: 600
Average GRE quantitative: 790
Average GRE analytical: 760

7. University of Southern California (Viterbi)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 48.8%
Average GRE verbal: 490
Average GRE quantitative: 754
Average GRE analytical: 681

9. University of Michigan--Ann Arbor

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 40%
Average GRE verbal: 533
Average GRE quantitative: 772
Average GRE analytical: 738

10. Cornell University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 24.3%
Average GRE verbal: 576
Average GRE quantitative: 785
Average GRE analytical: N/A

11. University of Texas--Austin

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 29.7%
Average GRE verbal: 547
Average GRE quantitative: 763
Average GRE analytical: 707

12. Purdue University--West Lafayette

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 30.4%
Average GRE verbal: 524
Average GRE quantitative: 757
Average GRE analytical: 666

13. University of California--San Diego (Jacobs)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 22%
Average GRE verbal: 521
Average GRE quantitative: 765
Average GRE analytical: 685

14. Texas A&M University--College Station (Look)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 37.9%
Average GRE verbal: 497
Average GRE quantitative: 751
Average GRE analytical: 674

14. University of Wisconsin--Madison

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 22.8%
Average GRE verbal: 559
Average GRE quantitative: 776
Average GRE analytical: 800

16. University of California--Los Angeles (Samueli)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 35.8%
Average GRE verbal: 503
Average GRE quantitative: 764
Average GRE analytical: 725

16. University of Maryland--College Park (Clark)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 24.5%
Average GRE verbal: 536
Average GRE quantitative: 758
Average GRE analytical: N/A

18. Princeton University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 17.7%
Average GRE verbal: 586
Average GRE quantitative: 784
Average GRE analytical: 711

19. Columbia University (Fu Foundation)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 29.4%
Average GRE verbal: 533
Average GRE quantitative: 773
Average GRE analytical: 729

19. University of California--Santa Barbara

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 24.9%
Average GRE verbal: 554
Average GRE quantitative: 776
Average GRE analytical: N/A

21. Northwestern University (McCormick)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 27.6%
Average GRE verbal: 567
Average GRE quantitative: 770
Average GRE analytical: 609

21. Pennsylvania State University--University Park

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 34.8%
Average GRE verbal: 512
Average GRE quantitative: 755
Average GRE analytical: 692

23. Harvard University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 12.8%
Average GRE verbal: 540
Average GRE quantitative: 740
Average GRE analytical: 743

23. University of Minnesota--Twin Cities

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 36.3%
Average GRE verbal: 528
Average GRE quantitative: 771
Average GRE analytical: N/A

23. University of Washington

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 34.3%
Average GRE verbal: 539
Average GRE quantitative: 736
Average GRE analytical: 654

26. Johns Hopkins University (Whiting)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 20.4%
Average GRE verbal: 547
Average GRE quantitative: 759
Average GRE analytical: 749

26. Ohio State University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 27.8%
Average GRE verbal: 518
Average GRE quantitative: 758
Average GRE analytical: 684

26. University of Florida

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 43.3%
Average GRE verbal: 519
Average GRE quantitative: 757
Average GRE analytical: 688

29. University of Pennsylvania

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 32.3%
Average GRE verbal: 541
Average GRE quantitative: 760
Average GRE analytical: 689

30. Duke University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 28.9%
Average GRE verbal: 552
Average GRE quantitative: 764
Average GRE analytical: 702

30. Rice University (Brown)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 15.3%
Average GRE verbal: 532
Average GRE quantitative: 760
Average GRE analytical: 742

30. University of Rochester

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 19.6%
Average GRE verbal: 535
Average GRE quantitative: 767
Average GRE analytical: 715

33. Virginia Tech

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 27.8%
Average GRE verbal: 551
Average GRE quantitative: 768
Average GRE analytical: 680

34. North Carolina State University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 23.2%
Average GRE verbal: 531
Average GRE quantitative: 756
Average GRE analytical: 670

34. University of California--Davis

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 34.3%
Average GRE verbal: 504
Average GRE quantitative: 749
Average GRE analytical: 691

36. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Fall 2006 Admissions statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 33.3%
Average GRE verbal: 531
Average GRE quantitative: 755
Average GRE analytical: 699

37. University of California--Irvine (Samueli)

Fall 2006 Admissions StatisticsOverall acceptance rate: 25.7%
Average GRE verbal: 50
Average GRE quantitative: 75
Average GRE analytical: 68

37. University of Virginia

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 20.8%
Average GRE verbal: 538
Average GRE quantitative: 753
Average GRE analytical: 731

37. Yale University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 17.5
Average GRE verbal: 574
Average GRE quantitative: 778
Average GRE analytical: 774

40. University of Colorado--Boulder

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 61.1%
Average GRE verbal: 552
Average GRE quantitative: 761
Average GRE analytical: 742

41. Boston University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 26.6%
Average GRE verbal: 530
Average GRE quantitative: 763
Average GRE analytical: 674

42. Lehigh University (Rossin)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 23.1%
Average GRE verbal: 472
Average GRE quantitative: 765
Average GRE analytical: 752

42. Vanderbilt University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 15%
Average GRE verbal: 548
Average GRE quantitative: 757
Average GRE analytical: 726

42. Washington University in St. Louis (Sever)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 25.5%
Average GRE verbal: 510
Average GRE quantitative: 760
Average GRE analytical: 580

45. Case Western Reserve University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 28%
Average GRE verbal: 506
Average GRE quantitative: 766
Average GRE analytical: 678

45. Iowa State University

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 22.4%
Average GRE verbal: 506
Average GRE quantitative: 766
Average GRE analytical: 711

47. Dartmouth College (Thayer)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 14.5%
Average GRE verbal: 601
Average GRE quantitative: 778
Average GRE analytical: 695

47. Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey--New Brunswick

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 25.6%
Average GRE verbal: 492
Average GRE quantitative: 730
Average GRE analytical: 677

47. University of Delaware

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 25.6%
Average GRE verbal: 519
Average GRE quantitative: 745
Average GRE analytical: 720

50. Arizona State University (Fulton)

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 44.1%
Average GRE verbal: 519
Average GRE quantitative: 759
Average GRE analytical: N/A

50. University of Pittsburgh

Fall 2006 Admissions Statistics
Overall acceptance rate: 34.5%
Average GRE verbal: 488
Average GRE quantitative: 776
Average GRE analytical: N/A

Top 100 CS Schools in US

2009-05-26T03:14:00.000-07:00

1. Stanford University ---- ckgaa@forsythe.stanford.edu
2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology ---- mitgrad@mit.edu
3. University of California - Berkeley ---- gradadm@eecs.berkeley.edu
4. Carnegie Mellon University ---- apps@ece.cmu.edu
5. Cornell University ---- engr_admissions-mailbox@cornell.edu
6. Princeton University ---- gradinfo@cs.princeton.edu
7. University of Texas - Austin ---- adgrd@utxdp.dp.utexas.edu
8. University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign ---- application@ece.uiuc.edu
9. University of Washington ---- uwgrad@u.washington.edu
10. University of Wisconsin - Madison ---- egradvisor@engr.wisc.edu
11. Harvard University ---- adm@hugsas.harvard.edu
12. California Institute of Technology ---- gradofc@cco.caltech.edu
13. Brown University ---- admission_graduate@brown.edu
14. University of California - Los Angeles ---- diane@ea.ucla.edu
15. Yale University ---- graduate.admissions@yale.edu
16. University of Maryland - College Park ---- cmscgrad@deans.umd.edu
17. University of Massachusetts - Amherst ---- gradapp@umassp.edu
18. Rice University ---- deng@rice.edu
19. University of Southern California ---- gradapp@enroll1.usc.edu
20. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ---- dawnf@umich.edu
21. Columbia University (Fu Foundation) ---- seasgradmit@columbia.edu
22. University of California - San Diego ---- gradinfo@cs.ucsd.edu
23. University of Pennsylvania ---- engadmis@seas.upenn.edu
24. Purdue University - West Lafayette ---- gradinfo@purdue.edu
25. Rutgers State University - New Brunswick ---- graduateadmissions@rutgers.edu
26. Duke University ---- grad-admissions@duke.edu
27. University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill ---- seaelle@unc.edu
28. University of Rochester ---- graddean@seas.rochester.edu
29. SUNY - Stony Brook ---- graduate.school@sunysb.edu
30. Georgia Institute of Technology
31. University of Arizona ---- gradadm@lorax.admin.arizona.edu
32. University of California - Irvine ---- jdsommer@uci.edu
33. University of Virginia ---- inquiry@cs.virginia.edu
34. Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis ----grad_me@engr.iupui.edu
35. Johns Hopkins University ---- grad_adm@jhu.edu
36. Northwestern University ---- gradapp@nwu.edu
37. Ohio State University ---- admissions@osu.edu
38. University of Colorado - Boulder ---- pamw@schof.colorado.edu
39. University of Utah ---- grad-coordinator@cs.utah.edu
40. Oregon Graduate Inst. of Science and Technology ---- admissions@admin.ogi.edu
41. University of Pittsburgh ---- admin@engrng.pitt.edu
42. Syracuse University ---- gradinfo@syr.edu
43. University of Pennsylvania ---- engadmis@seas.upenn.edu
44. University of Florida ---- admissions@eng.ufl.edu
45. University of Minnesota ---- gsadmit@maroon.tc.umn.edu
46. University of California - Santa Barbara ---- engrdean@engineering.ucsb.edu
47. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute ---- grad-services@rpi.edu
48. Univ of California-Santa Cruz ---- mullane@cse.ucsc.edu
49. University of Illinois - Chicago ---- laura@eecs.uic.edu
50. Washington University in St. Louis ---- gradengineering@seas.wustl.edu
51. Michigan State University ---- kreh@egr.msu.edu
52. Pennsylvania State University - University Park ---- gadm@psu.edu
53. CUNY - City College ---- admissions@crow.admit.ccny.cuny.edu
54. Dartmouth College ---- thayer.admissions@dartmouth.edu
55. Boston University University of California - Davis ---- gradinfo@ece.ucdavis.edu
56. SUNY - Buffalo ---- slking@eng.buffalo.edu
57. North Carolina State University ---- graduate_admissions@ncsu.edu
58. Arizona State University ---- asuengr@asu.edu
59. University of Iowa ---- admissions@uiowa.edu
60. Texas A&M University - College Station ---- eapo@tamu.edu
61. University of Oregon ---- osuadmit@ccmail.orst.edu
62. University of Kentucky ---- jreese@pop.uky.edu
63. Virginia Tech ---- mcpherso@vt.edu
64. Case Western Reserve University ---- grad@b63810.student.cwru.edu
65. George Washington University ---- adms@seas.gwu.edu
66. University of South Florida ---- kjohnson@eng.usf.edu
67. Temple University ---- sbiswas@vm.temple.edu
68. Oregon State University ---- osuadmit@ccmail.orst.edu
69. University of Southwestern Louisiana ---- admissions@usl.edu
70. Vanderbilt University ---- barbara.amann@vanderbilt.edu
71. University of Nebraska-Lincoln ---- grad_admissions@unl.edu
72. University of Houston ---- gradinfo@cs.uh.edu
73. University of Texas at Dallas ---- grad-admissions@utdallas.edu
74. Louisiana State U & A&M College
75. Iowa State University ---- grad_admissions@iastate.edu
76. New Mexico State University
77. Wayne State University ---- m.t.wood@wayne.edu
78. Washington State University
79. Kansas State University ---- gradschool@ksu.edu
80. University of Central Florida
81. United States Naval Postgraduate School ---- tcalhoon@nps.navy.mill
82. University of Texas - Arlington ---- graduate.school@uta.edu
83. University of Kansas ---- dwales@ukans.edu
84. University of Alabama - Huntsville ---- admitme@email.uah.edu
85. Old Dominion University ---- admit@odu.edu
86. University of Maryland Baltimore County ---- umbcgrad@umbc.edu
87. Southern Methodist University ---- valerin@seas.smu.edu
88. Illinois Institute of Technology ---- grad@minna.acc.iit.edu
89. University of Connecticut ---- mbalinsk@gris.grad.uconn.edu
90. University of South Carolina ---- info@engr.sc.edu
91. Florida State University ---- gaitrosd@cs.fsu.edu
92. Lehigh University ---- ineas@lehigh.edu
93. University of Massachusetts - Lowell ---- graduate_school@uml.edu
94. University of Alabama - Birmingham
95. Mississippi State University ---- student@grad.msstat
96. Kent State University ---- dbarber@emerald.educ.kent.edu
97. University of Oklahoma ---- admrec@ouwww.ucs.ou
98. Tulane University ---- emichael@mailhost.tcs.tulane.edu
99. Stevens Institute of Technology ---- jcuddy@stevens-tec
100. Worcester Polytechnic Institute ---- gao@wpi.edu

Top Universities - Financial Engineering!

2009-05-26T03:13:00.001-07:00

Top universities ---- MFE

The order stated below is random

1. University of Baltimore
2. Baruch College
3. Carnegie Mellon University
4. University of Chicago
5. Claremont Graduate University
6. Columbia University
7. Cornell University
8. Dublin City University
9. Georgia Institute of Technology
10. HEC Montreal
11. University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
12. Illinois Institute of Technology
13. John Hopkins University
14. Kent State University
15. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
16. University of Michigan
17. New York University
18. North Carolina State University
19. Oklahoma State University
20. Oregon Graduate Institute
21. Polytechnic University of New York
22. University of California Berkeley, Haas School of Business
23. Princeton
24. Purdue University
25. Rochester Institute of Technology
26. Rutgers University
27. University of Southern California
28. Stanford University
29. Tulane University
30. University of Toronto
31. University of Wisconsin-Madison
32. University of York
33. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
34. Stevens Institute of Technology (GRE scores are NOT required, but may be submitted in support of the students application)

Top Universities US - Industrial Engineering!

2009-05-26T03:12:00.001-07:00

1. Georgia Institute of Technology
2. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
3. Purdue University–West Lafayette (IN)
4. University of California–Berkeley
5. Penn State University–University Park
6. Texas A&M University–College Station
7. Stanford University (CA)
8. University of Wisconsin–Madison
9. Northwestern University (IL)
10. Virginia Tech
11. University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign
12. Cornell University (NY)
13. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
14. Ohio State University
15. North Carolina State University
16. Columbia University (Fu Foundation) (NY)
17. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (NY)
18. Arizona State University
19. University of Texas–Austin
20. University of Florida
21. University of Southern California

U.S News Ranking Top Schools: Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical

2009-05-26T03:11:00.002-07:00

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
2. California Institute of Technology
2. Stanford University
4. Georgia Institute of Technology
5. Purdue University--West Lafayette
5. University of Michigan--Ann Arbor
7. University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign
8. Cornell University
8. Princeton University
8. Texas A&M University--College Station (Look)
8. University of Maryland--College Park (Clark)
8. University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell)

U.S NewsTop Schools: Chemical Engineering Ranking

2009-05-26T03:11:00.001-07:00

1. California Institute of Technology
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
1. University of California--Berkeley
4. University of Minnesota--Twin Cities
5. Stanford University
5. University of Wisconsin--Madison
7. Princeton University
8. University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell)
9. University of California--Santa Barbara
10. University of Delaware
10. University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign

U.S NewsTop Schools: Biomedical/Bioengineering

2009-05-26T03:10:00.002-07:00

1. Johns Hopkins University (Whiting)
2. Georgia Institute of Technology
2. University of California--San Diego (Jacobs)
4. Duke University
5. University of Washington
6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
7. Boston University
7. University of Pennsylvania
9. Case Western Reserve University
10. Rice University (Brown)

U.S NewsTop Schools: Petroleum

2009-05-26T03:10:00.001-07:00

1. University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell)
2. Stanford University
2. Texas A&M University--College Station (Look)
4. University of Tulsa
5. Colorado School of Mines
5. Pennsylvania State University--University Park
5. University of Oklahoma
8. Louisiana State University--Baton Rouge
9. University of Southern California (Viterbi)
10. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
10. Texas Tech University

Top Universities US - Industrial Engineering!

2009-05-26T03:09:00.001-07:00

Universities accepting low GRE scores

2009-05-26T03:08:00.000-07:00

The scores stated below against each university are generally required in admission to Electrical and Computer Engineering Department. For the score requirements on other programs kindly visit the university website

1. University of Missouri, Rolla
Required verbal score: 370+
Required quantitative score: 700+
Required AWA score: 4.0+

2. University of Houston
Required verbal score: 450+
Required quantitative score: 750+
Required AWA score: 4.0+

3. New Jersey Institute of Technology
Required verbal score: 350+
Required quantitative score: 650+
Required AWA score: 4.0+

4. Illinois Institute of Technology
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1000
Required AWA score: 3.0

5. University of Wyoming
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 900

6. University of South Florida
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1200
Required verbal score: 500+

7. University of Texas, Arlington
Required verbal score: 470+
Required quantitative score: 700+
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1150

8. Auburn University
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1200+

9. Arizona State University
Required verbal score: 400+
Required quantitative score: 700+

10. Florida State University
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1100+
Required quantitative score: 650+

11. Kansas State University
Required verbal score: 400+
Required quantitative score: 650+
Required AWA score: 4.0+

12. Iowa State University
Minimum GRE score: 90th percentile in quantitative

13. University of Delaware
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1o5o+
Required quantitative score: 600+

14. University of Illinois, Chicago
Required verbal score: 500+
Required quantitative score: 700+
Required AWA score: 4.5+

15. University of Nevada, Reno
Required verbal score: 400+
Required quantitative score: 700+

16. College of William and Mary
Average verbal score range: 518 - 581
Average quantitative score range: 684 - 757
Average AWA score range: 4.5 - 5.5

17. New Mexico State University
Required verbal score: 400+
Required quantitative score: 720+
Required AWA score: 3.5+

18. University of Missouri, Columbia
Minimum GRE score: V=25th percentile, Q=80th percentile
Required AWA score: 4.0

19. University of New Mexico
Required verbal score: 570+
Required quantitative score: 670+

20. University of Texas, Dallas
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1200+

21. Ohio University
Minimum GRE score: Q=top 25th percentile

22. University of Idaho
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1200+

23. Texas A&M Kingsville
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1000

24. Texas A&M - Commerce
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1000

25. Bradley University
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 1000

26. University of North Texas
Required verbal score: 400+
Required quantitative score: 700+
Required AWA score: 4.0+

27. San Deigo State University
Required GRE score (quantitative + verbal): 950

28. Utah State University
Minimum GRE score: V=40th percentile, Q=40th percentile

U.S NewsTop Schools: Electrical/Electronic/Communications

2009-05-26T03:05:00.000-07:00

1 Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA
2 Stanford University Stanford, CA
2 University of California--Berkeley Berkeley, CA
4 University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign Urbana, IL
5 California Institute of Technology Pasadena, CA
6 Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA
6 University of Michigan--Ann Arbor Ann Arbor, MI
8 Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh, PA
9 Cornell University Ithaca, NY
10 Princeton University Princeton, NJ
10 Purdue University--West Lafayette West Lafayette, IN

Top 100 Universities for Computer Science

2009-05-26T03:01:00.000-07:00

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology ---- mitgrad@mit.edu
1. Stanford University ---- ckgaa@forsythe.stanford.edu
1. University of California–Berkeley ---- gradadm@eecs.berkeley.edu
4. Carnegie Mellon University ---- apps@ece.cmu.edu
5. University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign ---- application@ece.uiuc.edu
6. Cornell University ---- engr_admissions-mailbox@cornell.edu
6. Princeton University ---- gradinfo@cs.princeton.edu
6. University of Washington ---- uwgrad@u.washington.edu
9. Georgia Institute of Technology ---- http://www.cc.gatech.edu/education/grad/mscs
9. University of Texas–Austin ---- adgrd@utxdp.dp.utexas.edu
11. California Institute of Technology ---- gradofc@cco.caltech.edu
11. University of Wisconsin–Madison ---- egradvisor@engr.wisc.edu
13. University of California–Los Angeles ---- diane@ea.ucla.edu
13. University of Maryland–College Park ---- cmscgrad@deans.umd.edu
13. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor ---- dawnf@umich.edu
16. Columbia University ---- seasgradmit@columbia.edu
16. Harvard University ---- adm@hugsas.harvard.edu
16. University of California–San Diego ---- gradinfo@cs.ucsd.edu
19. Purdue University–West Lafayette ---- gradinfo@purdue.edu
20. Brown University ---- admission_graduate@brown.edu
20. Duke University ---- grad-admissions@duke.edu
20. Rice University ---- deng@rice.edu
20. University of Massachusetts–Amherst ---- gradapp@umassp.edu
20. University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill ---- seaelle@unc.edu
20. University of Pennsylvania ---- engadmis@seas.upenn.edu
20. University of Southern California ---- gradapp@enroll1.usc.edu
20. Yale University ---- graduate.admissions@yale.edu
28. Johns Hopkins University ---- grad_adm@jhu.edu
29. Pennsylvania State University–University Park ---- gadm@psu.edu
29. University of Virginia ---- inquiry@cs.virginia.edu
31. New York University ---- http://gsas.nyu.edu/page/gradHome
31. Ohio State University ---- admissions@osu.edu
31. Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey–New Brunswick ---- graduateadmissions@rutgers.edu
31. SUNY–Stony Brook ---- graduate.school@sunysb.edu
31. University of California–Irvine ---- jdsommer@uci.edu
31. University of Minnesota–Twin Cities ---- gsadmit@maroon.tc.umn.edu
37. University of California–Davis gradinfo@ece.ucdavis.edu
37. University of California–Santa Barbara ---- engrdean@engineering.ucsb.edu
39. Northwestern University ---- gradapp@nwu.edu
39. University of Arizona ---- gradadm@lorax.admin.arizona.edu
39. University of Chicago ---- http://gradadmissions.uchicago.edu/
39. University of Colorado–Boulder ---- pamw@schof.colorado.edu
39. University of Florida ---- admissions@eng.ufl.edu
39. University of Utah ---- grad-coordinator@cs.utah.edu
39. Washington University in St. Louis ---- gradengineering@seas.wustl.edu
46. Texas A&M University–College Station ---- eapo@tamu.edu
46. Virginia Tech ---- mcpherso@vt.edu
48. Boston University ---- http://www.cs.bu.edu/
48. Dartmouth College ---- thayer.admissions@dartmouth.edu
48. Indiana University–Bloomington ---- http://www.cs.indiana.edu/Academics/
48. North Carolina State University ---- graduate_admissions@ncsu.edu
48. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute ---- grad-services@rpi.edu
48. University of Pittsburgh ---- admin@engrng.pitt.edu
48. University of Rochester ---- graddean@seas.rochester.edu
55. Arizona State University ---- asuengr@asu.edu
55. Michigan State University ---- kreh@egr.msu.edu
55. University at Buffalo–SUNY ---- slking@eng.buffalo.edu
58. University of California–Santa Cruz ---- mullane@cse.ucsc.edu
58. University of Illinois–Chicago ---- laura@eecs.uic.edu
58. Vanderbilt University ---- barbara.amann@vanderbilt.edu
61. Iowa State University ---- grad_admissions@iastate.edu
61. Northeastern University ---- http://www.coe.neu.edu/coe/index.html
61. University of Iowa ---- admissions@uiowa.edu
61. University of Tennessee–Knoxville ---- http://www.engr.utk.edu /
65. CUNY Graduate School and University Center --- http://www.cs.gc.cuny.edu/
65. Case Western Reserve University ---- grad@b63810.student.cwru.edu
65. George Mason University ---- http://www.gmu.edu/acadexcel/
65. Syracuse University ---- gradinfo@syr.edu
65. University of California–Riverside ---- http://www.graduate.ucr.edu/GradPrograms.html
65. University of Notre Dame ---- http://graduateschool.nd.edu/departments-and-programs
65. University of Oregon ---- http://gradschool.uoregon.edu/
72. Brandeis University ---- http://www.brandeis.edu/
72. Oregon State University ---- osuadmit@ccmail.orst.edu
72. Polytechnic University ---- http://www.poly.edu/admissions/graduate/
72. University of Maryland–Baltimore County ---- umbcgrad@umbc.edu
72. University of Texas–Dallas ---- grad-admissions@utdallas.edu

Source: U.S. News

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL®)

2009-05-26T02:49:00.001-07:00

TOEFL® measures your proficiency in the English language in an academic context. The TOEFL® test is a registered trademark of Educational Testing Service (ETS®) and is administered worldwide. The test was first administered 1964 and has since been taken by millions of students. Most universities and colleges in the US and Canada require you to take the TOEFL test if you want to apply for a place to study there. More than 6,000 colleges, universities, and licensing agencies in 110 countries accept TOEFL scores.

TOEFL for Whom

You may need to sit the TOEFL test if your native language is not English and

you are applying to study at a university in the US
you are applying to be a teaching assistant as part of your (post) graduate programme at a US university
you are applying for a license to work as a doctor or nurse in the US
you are applying for university entrance or professional licensure in New Zealand

However, many US institutions do not require you to sit the TOEFL test if

you hold a degree or diploma from a postsecondary institution in an English-speaking country
you have successfully completed at least a two-year course of study in which English was the language of instruction

Please check admissions criteria of the institution(s) you intend applying for in order to determine whether you need to take the test.

About TOEFL

Test Internet Based (iBT): Since its introduction in late 2005, the Internet-based test (iBT) has progressively replaced both the computer-based (CBT) and paper-based (PBT) tests. The iBT has been introduced in phases, with the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and Italy in 2005 and the rest of the world in 2006, with test centers added regularly Computer-based Test (CBT): In most countries the TOEFL is a computer-based test (CBT), this means you have to follow instructions on a screen and answer questions interactively.

Paper-based Test (PBT): In areas where the iBT and CBT are not available, a paper-based test (PBT) is given. The PBT tests essentially the same skills as the CBT, albeit with some differences, noticeably the number of questions (which is higher in the PBT) and the score scales.

TOEFL Registration: The TOEFL test is given on set dates throughout the year, although not every test centre offers the test on every test date. For the most current information regarding test centers and dates, visit the TOEFL iBT online registration system on the ETS website.You can register online at the ETS website, by phone or by mail. Registration forms cannot be faxed.Online and phone registrations require a valid credit card. Early registration closes seven days prior to the test date (not including the day of the test). Late registration (which incurs an additional late fee of US$25) closes three days prior to the test date (not including the day of the test).To register by mail you need to obtain the TOEFL Information and Registration Bulletin for Internet-based Testing (iBT), which you can download from the ETS website or contact in INDIA. Thomson Testing Private Limited, 2nd Floor, DLF Infinity Tower-A, Sector – 25, Phase II, DLF City Gurgaon, Harayana – 122 002, INDIA. To register by phone in INDIA, call 91-124-4147700.The registration form must be received at ETS at least four weeks before your earliest test date.

TOEFL Fees: Currently Fee for TOEFL® Internet-Based Test in India is US$165.

Cliff's TestPrep GRE CBT 6e

2009-05-26T02:48:00.001-07:00

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Nova's GRE Prep Course (Complete Review)

2009-05-26T02:43:00.001-07:00

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Acro's Teach yourself the GRE in 24 Hrs

2009-05-26T02:37:00.000-07:00

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GRE E-Books

2009-05-26T02:26:00.000-07:00

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After the Exam - Get the Right College

2009-05-26T02:19:00.001-07:00

After giving your GRE (if you're applying for graduate school) or SAT (if applying for an undergrad course) and getting your scores, the next big step is identifying the right college. For domestic as well as international students, the US has been the destination of choice for pursuing their higher education. Now you can easily look up any college in the US thanks to top-colleges.com - a site where you can find the right college/university for you by location (by entering a zip code search), by doing a a program search (e.g. engineering, MBA) or by doing a state search (California, New York etc).

Each school featured on Top-Colleges offers a variety of financial aid programs, accelerated degrees, and flexible scheduling options to suit your needs and lifestyle. You can view dozens of top colleges near you (or near a location of your choice) — with hundreds of degree, diploma and certificate programs.

GRE Test Preparation Guidelines

2009-05-26T02:11:00.002-07:00

The important points that are very helpful in GRE Test PREP are.

* Effective time management.
* Awareness of the test sections and structure.
* Repeated practice.
* Start Preparation with out delay.
* Repeated tests to assess oneself.
* Work harder on weakness.

Preparing for a test is never an easy task. Added GRE Test Prep is also not easy. It is important to learn to avoid anxiety during GRE Test Prep. The only way of doing this is through Planned GRE Test prep. Preparation is possible only through practice. Repeated practice on the samples of the test designed and presented in the same format as the original and with the time limitations is the best way to prepare for the original GRE.

The next crucial point to remember is to accustom oneself on the basic foundations of the syllabus in the question sections.

The choice of how to prepare for the GRE is entirely the student s decision. The method chosen for GRE test Prep is not of importance, only the time spent on GRE test Prep acquiring the skill needed to take the test counts.

The first point as said earlier is the student s ability of time management. It is important to keep track of time while taking the test.

The GRE test has a time limit to adhere to. Each section is provided with a separate time slot in which they have to be completed. There are no extensions provided to complete the tasks. Therefore the student should practice answering the model questioner within the original time limit of the GRE test.

It is essential that you plan out a schedule to work on sample tests and brush up on your fundamentals. By taking a sample test before beginning the GRE Test Prep the student will be able to ascertain the subject area that he is weak in and work towards improving those pertaining areas.

By setting aside time for daily practice and following this schedule you can help prepare yourself for the GRE test. If you choose you can also opt for any institute specializing in such training.

More information on GRE test prep and sample questioner can be acquired from the following web sites:

* Kaplan
* Princeton Review
* GreBible
* GRE Official website

Get Scholarship Even With Low GRE Score

2009-05-26T02:11:00.001-07:00

For GRE score less than 1200, there are very good chances that you will get admission, but admission with Financial aid or scholarship will be little difficult. Keep reading, I will uncover few tips that might just get what you wanted.

If the graduate schools admission committee is pleased with your performance by looking at high GRE score, papers presentation, projects, recommendation letters from high profile professors, they want such students to study in their school and they give admission with some form of Financial aid or Scholarship.

That doesn't mean students with Low GRE are less capable. There are few things that can be done to increase your chances to get college admission with scholarship.

- Ask your professors who recommends you to highlight the achievements from the project work or paper presentation

- Include the copies of your project report along with the graduate schools application packet

- Include copies of all certificates ( Training, computer course, extra-curricular activities)

- Personally contact professors if your research interests are the same as area professors is working on and explain your achievements, chances are you will get admission and and asked to work for him after the class starts. Which is a good sign.

If any of the above doesn't help you to scholarship or some form of Financial aid, don't give up. Get your visa and head to the school where things looks good in terms of funding. Read about short listing from previous posts to understand which universities to select from list of schools you got admission.

Once, you reach university even before the classes start, start looking for college campus part time jobs. If you happen to be in school where there are more International Students, its all about being in right place at right time to get part time job.

Then get an appointment with your professors and start working for him, based on your work, you will be given scholarship or financial aid.

So, even with Low GRE score, by contacting the professors, will double your admission chances.

An Intro to GRE

2009-05-26T02:10:00.001-07:00

The Graduate Record Examination is held by the Educational Testing Service and is required for admissions into graduate programmes in universities in the United States of America and Singapore.

Being a Computer Adaptive Test, it can be taken any time of the year. All one has to do is book a date with the ETS to write the GRE.

The GRE has three sections:

i. Quantitative Reasoning: This mainly includes basic mathematics questions -- 28 questions to be attempted in 45 minutes. One can score a maximum of 800 in this section.
ii. Verbal Ability: 30 questions in 30 minutes is acknowledged by most to be the toughest section in the examination, especially for non-native English speakers. The highest score possible in this section is also 800.
iii. Analytical Writing Ability: This requires students to write two essays -- one expressing your opinion on a topic, and another in which you are expected to analyse an argument. This section is scored out of 6.

When to start
This is the question that plagues most students during their pre-final year.
Many believe the GRE requires close to six months of intensive preparation. This, I think, is a fallacy.

The GRE is not a particularly difficult examination. Really!

As an engineer/engineering student, the Quantitative Reasoning section of the GRE shouldn't be too difficult, especially after spending four years in the company of engineering mathematics.
But if you are like most engineers and have had a healthy disdain for English through school, Verbal Ability is unlikely to be a cakewalk.

Taking everything into consideration, cracking the GRE does not require more than a couple of months of hard work.

Pre-final year students have the advantage of having a summer break before the final year. This summer break can be put to good use, especially if you manage to cloister yourself in a room, away from distractions.

The best time, in my opinion, to book a date for writing the GRE is in the month of June or early July. After that, academic pressures may put a damper on your preparation for the exam.
If you postpone taking the exam to September, you could suddenly find yourself pressed for time. This is mainly because the official GRE scores do not arrive until three weeks after you take the examination.

More important, writing the GRE is merely a small part in the entire application process.

Booking a date
i. The easiest way to book a date to write the GRE is to call Prometric India on (011) 2651 1649.
Writing the examination will put you back by $140 (Rs 6,115 approximately).
ii. You need an international credit card to book your seat.
iii. Monday is a good day to choose to write the GRE because Saturday and Sunday are likely to be holidays, and so you miss fewer classes (or days of work).
Study material

The GRE guides on the planet are probably outnumbered only by the number of institutions claiming to give you a passport to the Indian Institutes of Management.

Choosing the right mix is not very easy and involves trial and error.

A few books and CDs that I, and a few of my acquaintances, found helpful are:

i. Barron's How to Prepare for the GRE: Graduate Record Examination, 14th edition.
This is a book every GRE aspirant is undoubtedly aware of.
It is most famous for its 50 word lists, containing arcane words the testers at ETS love to ask.
Read the book. You will totally believe that the people at ETS do not speak normal English like the rest of us.

ii. GRE Big Book, published by the Educational Testing Service.
The Big Book is little known. But it is one I found extremely useful.
It contains 27 question papers culled from the paper and pencil avatar of the GRE over several years, and is published by the same people who set the tests, ETS. Unfortunately, it is out of print and is very difficult to find. With a little perseverance, you can get hold of a photocopy of the same. If you are decent at Quantitative Reasoning, you can safely skip those sections here.

iii. Kaplan Higher Score on the GRE CD
This CD contains a diagnostic test, three full-length Computer Adaptive Tests and six sectional tests, in addition to a few nifty tools.
The Verbal Ability Section is much tougher than what one is likely to find elsewhere (and in the actual exam as well). The Quantitative Reasoning section is tougher as well.
So do not be surprised if you witness a terrible dip in your performance when you try this out.

iv. The Princeton Review CD
The Princeton Review CD has quite a few Computer Adaptive Tests which are a lot easier than the actual GRE, in my opinion.
Attempt to score a minimum of 1,450 or so in these tests. For a sample test online, click here.

v. The PowerPrep CD
When you book your date to write the GRE, you will receive this CD from ETS.
This CD does not have as much information as one might expect (shocking, especially when one looks at how much ETS charges the test taker!).
I strongly recommend preserving one of the two diagnostic tests on the CD for the day before the GRE. This is because repeated experiments with several people I know seem to indicate that what you score in the actual GRE will hover around your score in the PowerPrep test.
There are lots of other test prep CDs and books you can avail of. (Cambridge and Peterson's crop to mind), but it is best to stick to these.

If you have the time, inclination and money for the others, do give them a shot.

Note: Many wonder whether it is worth attending coaching classes to prepare for the GRE. To answer the question: No.

The coaching institutes charge the earth, and do not give you an edge over anyone else who has worked hard sitting at home.

Also: the practice tests that most of them promise you are merely CATs from some of the CDs I have mentioned above. Take it from one who has actually squandered a lot of money on these classes!

GRE Preparation Guides

2009-05-26T02:09:00.001-07:00

Long time no see guys. Busy as bee I have been, unable to post or reply to your comments. Well its my birthday today (28th Feb) and I decided what better time than this to post on my favourite blog.

Well coming straight to the point, from most of the comments you have made, it appears that the GRE big book is the single most popular book you need! Well, I did post a direct link to it but it was so overused that the bandwidth limit of the googlepages site got exceeded and everyone could not download it.

Anyways, below are rapidshare links to the big book and some other GRE preparation stuff that will help you. By the way, if you're a new visitor, don't forget to check the blog's archive in the sidebar. Maybe I have already posted links to something you need in the blog.

The GRE Big Book
http://rapidshare.com/files/25410505/bigbook.zip

(Please paste the links in your browser and click enter. For some reasons I cannot link directly to rapidshare stuff. This goes for all the stuff emntioned below)

Vocaboly Software
http://rapidshare.com/files/25413579/Vocaboly.rar

5 Quants GRE tests
http://rapidshare.com/files/73539115/5_Quants_GRE_tests.zip

800score.com 28 maths tests
http://rapidshare.com/files/73540181/800score.com_28MATHS_29.zip

CAT simulator useful for GRE
http://rapidshare.com/files/73540589/CAT_27s_Simulator_GRE.zip

Nova Prep Guide
http://rapidshare.com/files/44846489/Nova.pdf

Best GRE Material

2009-05-26T02:07:00.000-07:00

I feel guilty as I write this post, as its been a few months since my last one. Bu then, I also take comfort in the fact that I've made most of the good gre preparation material available for you to download on this blog.

However, I am also slightly annoyed at people, who just visit the site, don't even navigate and straight away post a comment listing their requested material and ask me to email it to them. Dont get me wrong, I get loads of compliments as well from you kind souls, but hey..why do people have to ask me to email them gre books and software for which I have already provided the download link(s) on this site!

You just need to look in the sidebar towards the right. Check out the section titled "popular posts" and the "blog archive" which is more comprehensive. You wont be disappointed, trust me. Even the gre big book is available here (though it does not have the quants section!)

And after that lecture, its time for the goodies :) Some new gre guides and books:

- GRE Maths Skills - a really nice guideline for the GRE Quants section

- GRE Antonyms and Analogies practice - an ebook that compiles the best practice questions on analogies and antonyms.

Wishing all the best for your GRE if you're preparing to give it these days... Get a wonderful gre score and make me proud!

How to Prepare for GRE

2009-05-26T02:05:00.000-07:00

Firstly, make sure that when you register for the test, you have at least 3 months to study! Anything less than that is educational suicide - unless you're in the IIT...

Secondly, there is no such strategy which says that you should start studying from the Verbal section and then move on to Quants or vice-versa. Start with whatever you are comfortable with! I started preparing with the verbal section because my language skills are far better than my mathematical skills. Starting your preparation with something you find easy helps defuse stress and arouse interest in what you're studying.

The GRE preparation study is never ending...you can't have enough practice in maths and almost nobody can memorize the meanings of all those thousands of words. So these 2 things - Quants and Words - should be universal in your preparation, i.e. you should study them every day even as you set up targets for the more particular sections.

Those who are good with English should not get overconfident. The reading comprehension section can be quite tricky. Its not like those simple comprehension passages that you get in your 10th and 12th standard board exams.

Some of the books I recommend for GRE preparation you will find on the right sidebar of this blog. Quite a few are available on this blog for free download if you know where to look (just click in the right places!) make your preparation a mixture of online and offline study. I always recommend number2.com for their short mock tests.

Finally, dont procrastinate (if you don't know the meaning of this word, your GRE preparation is lagging!). Laziness never did you any good and never will. If you find it difficult to study in the morning, then be a night bird and work hard.

Once you think you have studied enough, start giving the mock test in the ETS powerprep CD. That test will give you a good indication of where you stand. Identify your weak areas from the result of the test and try to strengthen them with practice. As the Bhagwad Gita says, "karma kar, Fal ki Chinta Mat kar" . May the force be with you!

Those who have already given their GRE are most welcome to share their experiences and provide tips in the comments section.

Links for GMAT Preparation

2009-05-26T01:57:00.000-07:00

Useful Links for GMAT Preparation

GMAT Official Site http://www.gmat.org/: mba.com and gmac.com
• Free on-line questions
• They also have a "Question of the Day" section.
• Offer the complete list of essay topics that will be used during administration of the Analytical Writing Assessment section of the Graduate Management Admission Test® (GMAT®)

Peterson's - http://www.petersons.com
• Offers a free downloadable program that includes a full-length practice test.
• Sample questions section
• Tips and strategies

Kaplan - http://www.kaplan.com
This is one of the best websites for the GMAT preparation. In addition to having a number of GMAT articles on-line, they also have sample questions, free on-line test and a GMAT discussion board.

Admissionconsultants - http://www.admissionsconsultants.com/gmat/test.asp
• Info on GMAT structure and test taking tips and strategy
• Sample questions (very good examples)

Ivyleague - http://www.ivyleagueadmission.com/gmatindex.html
• Sample questions on all sections

Princeton Review - http://www.princetonreview.com/home.asp
Free GMAT Online Course Demo, which includes:
• A full-length computer-adaptive practice test
• An interactive lesson introducing you to the GMAT

GMATbuster - http://www.gmatbuster.org/gmat-tests.htm
• Sample questions on different sections

Crack-GMAT-http://www.crack-GMAT.com
• The site offers a free full-length downloadable GMAT-CAT test. This test lets you compare your scores with those of other test-takers around the world. Offers excellent study guides for various sections of the GMAT.

Syvum - http://www.syvum.com/gmat/tips.html
• Analysis of Issue Topics: With Reasons, Examples, Points & Essays

800Score – http://www.800score.com
• Offers free math section

GMATtutor - http://www.gmattutor.com
• Tips and tricks
• Math basics
• Information on best preparation books and offer a discount to purchase them throughout the tutor web site.
• List of idioms

Testpreview - http://www.testprepreview.com/gmat_practice.htm
• Free preparation tests

Obrazovanie - http://www.obrazovanie.info/gmat/
• Substantial GMAT vocabulary list

Amazon - http://www.amazon.com
• Here you can find more information on GMAT books and purchase GMAT study materials.

GRE Practice Tests

2009-05-25T22:28:00.001-07:00

GRE- Download 25 Free GRE Practice Tests

* 5 Reading Comprehension GRE Practice Tests
* 5 Sentence Completion GRE Practice Tests
* 5 Analogies GRE Practice Tests
* 5 Comparison GRE Practice Tests
* 5 Problem Solving GRE Practice Tests

Click to Download 25 Free GRE Practice tests

Vocab Builder for GRE

2009-05-25T22:26:00.000-07:00

Guys,this is an another gre vocab builder application which is specially designed for the gre test(Graduate Record Examination).This vocab builder helps sharpen up your skills in english Vocabulary.This application has got 1200+ gre words.

But what sets it apart is the the user has the freedom of adding his own gre wordlist.Moreover it allows you to take a graded test of your word power, the level of words coming on screen increasing/decreasing dynamically according to your performance.

you can add the words either using the built in Add Words wizard to avoid any errors or if you want u can just add using Microsoft Access. The later strategy is useful if u want to import your own wordlist.
If you have any queries or suggestions feel free to comment.

Download

IMP VISA Qs

2009-05-24T03:04:00.000-07:00

1. How many universities did you apply to?

This is a very basic question, but linked to this is the second question that is shot at you.

2. How many admits/ rejects?

As explained in the above question, both of these are interlinked. Now if you applied to 4, were accepted in 1 and got 3 rejects..you dont have to be Mr. TRUTH. So put it as applied to 4, got 1, awaiting 2, 1 reject or applied to 4, got 1, awaiting 3.But then you have to state as in Question 3. that this was supposed to be your first choice anyhow, so even if you would have had the admit letters from any of the other 3, you would certainly have gone for this one.

But if you are one of those type who offered to 1 and got just 1, dont go about saying that!!! Say you applied to 4 ,got 1, awaiting 3..put up the other univ's names;-) coz they think that someone who has applied to just one univ isn’t really serious about his admissions and so isnt interested in educational purpose..which means a direct reject. If you applied to 11, got from just one..better say that you applied to just 4 or 5, and one reject, one admit and rest awaited.

Many a times its better not to carry the reject letters, though some people advise so, but the thing is some univs reject on totally baseless matters..eg. I was accepted by Univ of Maryland, College Park..but I was rejected by Univ of Texas, Dallas. I passed my BE in EC wiht 72%, now UTD sent me a rejection letter stating that I dint meet their academic requirements". Well they admitted people with 60% marks. So now If i carried that letter with me, though my acads were great, the letter would have created a negative impression in the mind of the interviewing officer. So you are the best judge as to if the rejection letter will do you good/bad. Its never gonna do good, beleive me :-P.

3. What was your first choice?

The answer to this question also is dependant on the earlier one.

4. What is your GRE/TOEFL score?

As per your details. But always try to speak out the better score first. Like if you have a good TOEF L score ,say 630, and a GRE of 1750, speak out your TOEFL first and then GRE. Usually people think, they can go and lead them by answering long and sweet, like if asked for scores, the long answer might be : "Sir, I took my Computer based TOEFL and scored 270 at it, while I took the GRE and scored 800 in Quantitative, 710 in Analytical and 430 in Verbal". Well this can heat up the officer. He/She might feel you are taking him for ride ..even if you are not. So keep it short. So let the answer be : " TOEFL 270, GRE : 1940". Thats it!!..as much as he asked for. Makes his job easier and so he doesnt get pissed off at any of your leading behaviours.

5. What are your grades like?

Spell it out as it has been at your university. Say "Sir, We have a percentage system, and i scored xx% overall" IF your final year marks excel the other sems marks, spell that one out, coz usually in some universities, they look at the final year marks to grade the student in the Certificate.When later asked as to why u said XX% whereas the total marks of all your marksheets add up to XX-5/10% then clarify yourself...(They wont always go checking all your marksheets, but then you werent lying)

6. Which was your undergraduate college?

As per your details.

7. What was your bachelor's degree in?

As per your details.

8. What is the purpose of your trip?

MS in CS/Telecommunications/EE...whatever or PhD in MEch/

9. Which university are you planning to go to?

The University of your choice and the univ you want the VISA for.

10.Who is planning to sponsor you?

As mentioned in your I-20. If you have a scholarship, say that. Else in case the I-20 says "Family funds" say that, and you may add that sir, my father and my mother are supporting me for my higher education.

11.Why do you plan to do MS?

Say that you felt that higher qualifications give a better place, a better standard in today's competitive world. You felt that you have a good know-how of your field, but a bit more technical knowledge in "the field you are going for MS in" will serve you greatly, when you come back here and join the industry of your choice

12.Why do you wish to study in the US and not in India?

The courses in the field I am interested in are not being offered (or very few institutions offer such courses). In addition to that the research going on is something I would like to be associated with. (Speak about the facilities as well). Talk about a few researches being conducted in that field. Technical words work out when other things dont.

13. Why did u select this Uni versity?

This question can be best answered when you do a bit of homework about you university. Browse the Webpage of the University, visit the pages of the professors, go through thier projects. Now remember some of the key words, like the project a professor X is working on. Mention something about the project if the officer is listening and is giving you time to explain. When you do such things, they think that you are pretty serious about your studies and are really into it. Well, some people believe in mentioning about hte rank of the university, or the student to faculty ratio..well these all things dont affect how you are interested in it. You can say all these stuff such as rank and all, but you have to state what interested you and it should be something about research or academics.You can also show letters of correspondence with your University professors. If you dont have those, build some..Click here to know how to build a Correspondence mail

MY answer to this question:

"Sir, the first and foremo st factor for selecting this university was the course being offered. Telecom at UMCP is a cross-disciplinary course. Besides technical knowledge, this course also enhances the managerial skills which is the demand of the present-day telecom industry. So while the professors from Computer and Electrical department will be teaching me Signal Processing, Encoding, Communication techniques, Networking ..at the same time the experts from School of Public Affairs will be imparting me knowledge of Present day competition in Telecom industry, staff management and resource management."

IF time permitted, I would have added:

"Sir, UMCP is located within Baltimore-Washington DC area, one of the greatest concentrations of research facilities and intellectual talent in the nation. "Library of Congress", "the National Archives" and "the Smithsonian Institute" are some of the biggest research institutes and libraries which the students will enjoy having frequent interactions with. What else could a Student ask for??"

14. Your passbooks show that a large amount of money has recently been deposited. How would you explain that?

(NOBODY keeps huge sums of money in their savings account, so relax! If you have borrowed the money here is,what you could do Its quite likely that in the past you may have received huge sums of money like selling of some,property, retirement of parents etc so u could say something like) In year X we had received Rs. T and instead of depositing the amount in a bank at a low interest rate, we invested it in other sources which gave us high interest rates or we gave it to our needy friends. Now we have taken this money back to finance my education. (Of course its really dicey to answer this question, but if you are confident you shouldnt have a problem. If you have some proof of receiving a huge sum of money some years back, make sure you carry it) You can also say that you had private FDs , i.e you invested in private firms coz they provide higher interest rates (say out figures like 16% per annum0 as comp ared to the mere 9% of banks. Click here for Private FDs Receipt. You can show this receipt and say that now you encashed that amount, coz you needed it for your educational purposes.

15. What does your father do?What if my dad has taken the VR?

Well this does have a specific reply, but then you can put it as "Sir, My father is working with a German

collaborated company for the past 25 years as a Manager in XYZ department. The long reply helps over here. If your father has taken a voluntary retirement, dont mention that he has retired. Well there are two approaches to this. One, say that your father worked with this company for the last 30 years and now has his own consultancy dealing with(insert some financial or technical terms). Two, Say that your father worked as Asst Mgr./Mgr./GM with some company for the past 25 years, took a VR and now has a consultancy of his own. Never show him to be idle, coz that means your income has drastically reduced and works as a negative point. Stating about the VR often helps coz then you can assure him that most of the money you have shown is yours coz usually people get huge amounts on taking a VR. So that does help on the financial grounds.

16. Does any of your relative stay in the US?

The answers to this vary from person to person. The two basic replies being: Either "YES" or "NO". But I believe that you be truthful at this instance. I have seen many people who have been true and werent affected by that. In fact at an USEFI seminar, addressed by the Consulate Officer.. it was said by the officer himself that," We know that most of the student will end up staying there after completing their studies, but atleast we can do our part of skimming them. We can atleast play the part of sieving across the deserving people and not every pedestrian." This means that they evaluate you on the basis of your merits and not by what the person staying abroad is going to do for you. And the financial part is because they want to be assured that you can atleast go through your studies fully. It just happens that many a times, they check your file..based on details provided in your passport, and if they do apprehend you lying, that might spell trouble. So, I think telling the truth is the best thing. If your uncle or cousin or distant aunt stays there, you dont have to say "YES" coz that doesnt matter. All that matters is your immediate relatives ..i.e own brother, sister , father or mother.

17. Your brother/sister is studying there too. How will your parents support both of you?

Now, you have your chance of taking the officer for a ride here. Even if your brother/sister doesnot have an

aid/scholarship, you can say he got a TA/RA there and so he neednot be supported by the family any more for his educational expenses.

18.Why is your GRE score low ? (or any section score low)

This is the most preffered answer.I answered the first few questions incorrectly and I couldnt improve my score later even after performing well later. (Low = <1800>

If you have a low VERBAL score, but a good TOEFL score, you can always say that "Please look at my TOEFL score Sir, I have done well at that". Besides GRE is just one of the many aspects that the universities look at for admission(Say this line only when you think you are drowning).

19. What are you plans after Graduation?

Be really well prepared for this question. This answer is not fool proof, but its you who can make it seem so. The basic things are:

Your field is what you will pursue

Your field is on a roll in INDIA

Your field has great opportunities

You get those opportunities even now

You get better opportunities once you do your MS

Show foreign companies coming to INDIA investing in your field

State some technical words expressing the advancements in your field

Make it seem, this field wont go ahead without guys like you ;)

Here is what I prepared as an answer to his question:

"Sir, I plan to go to University of Maryland,College Park, to do my MS in TELECOMMUNICATIONS. Telecom

industry is booming today in INDIA. Various US companies like HUGHES, Orange, AT&T, Hutchison.. are investing huge amounts of research funds and are looking forward to launch advanced Telecommunication methods in INDIA. Besides them, various Indian Telecom Giants like RELIANCE TELECOM, Bharti Telecom, VSNL are also investing in behemoth amounts into this arena. Sir, as it is I beleive that better technical knowledge will help me to achieve greater heights in this field, having deepened my technical knowledge after completing my higher studies, I wish to get into this seemingly vast arena of Indian Telecom Industry" I was also selected by RELIANCE TELECOM , so i took the letter along with me, and would have surely shown them that if i would have seen that they werent impressed by my answer and would have added" Sir, as it is I was selected by an INDIAN Telecom Giant, but sir, deeper technical knowledge would surely enable me get better results in the competitive field, and I have seen that there is a dearth of persons with greater technical know-how in this field, and whosoever has it will be benefitted highly. So I wish to complete my MS and strengthen my technical know-how and grasp the opportunity"

20. Why are you changing your stream?

This generally occurs coz people having done their BE in Civil go on to pursue MS in CS. I am giving this reply specifically for transfer to CS stream, coz i dont think anyone from CS would be going to Mech ;).This is easy to get through. You can say either of the points:

Sir, during my third semester, when I was introduced to programming languages, I had a great exposure to

computers. I gradually developed a liking for it and wished to deepen my knowledge in it. I mastered a number of languages on my own, and am also into Web Designing and software debugging(push in

technical words).

I always had it in my mind, that once I strengthen myself in my field, I will go on to enhance my skills in the field of Computers. There were a vast number of options available, viz. CS, CN, CE but I chose CS as I had esteem interest in Software and its working Always try to show that you have an interest for that subject. Never project that you are taking this up coz the market is strong. This is coz you are changing your stream..they might end up thinking that you just used your BE to get to this stage and that u dint do that on interest..they'll think you are fickle minded. Show that you do everything with your interst , you even did your BE in Civil or any other field coz you had interest in it, and now CS is your interest too.

21. What is your father's annual income?

This question often decides your ability to pay for your exp enses. They think that money can be put into banks, but annual income is a proof which they heavily rely upon to decide the student's parents capability to spend for his educational expenses.

Whatever the officer asks. 1) What is your father's annual income? 2). What is your family's annual income?.

.The moment the words 'Annual Income" creeps in, state your complete family annual income, i.e if your mother is also an earning member, if you have agricultural income, if you ahve rental income plus the interests and dividends...State all of them together. Dont commit the blunder of stating just your father's income..many a times it hampers your chances..if it seems low to them. Obviously a sum of mother's income , your father's income, agricultural(if u have), ental will be more than a single one. And if they ask for the IT returns , hand over both of your parent's return statements, plus the agricultural papers plus the rental receipt(duplicate) at a time. And if he/she just argues(usually they dont) that you were asked about your father's income..then say" Sir, MY family is sponsoring me. Alongwith my father my mother is also an earning member and an income tax payee. Family funds is what the I-20 states, and so my family including my father and mother(opt brother, if u have one earning) are sponsoring me and here are their statements and proofs of other modes of income.

22.You look like Potential immigrants OR I dont think you will come back to India

This is a real tricky question. Many get blue when they hear this and lose their senses as how to tackle this question. Stay calm and think what all you can say like :"I am from a very well-to do family and money is not at all essential for me. I stand to inherit a lot from my parents (say this if u have lots of property) so staying and working in the US is not a criteria at all. The only thing i lack is this Masters (or whatever degree) which will make me a better software professional. As far as opportunity is concerned, because of the recession most of the US Co mpanies are turning to the Indian companies for their software solutions. Most of the Indian companies have tie-ups with the US

Companies (give some examples). So I am certain that with my degree I will get an equivalent opportunity and pay packet in India .

The Most important Factor

Let me tell you something. The most important factor is "CONFIDENCE". Nothing can depose that. Whatever the answer be, if you are confident and show that you arent nervous a bit, that will really help you get through. Complete Documents, Convincing Skills, Confidence and Present mindedness is what you have to invest. These are the keys to getting through the interview successfully. Many do get through coz of sheer luck, when some of the casual officers just seem to be in a hurry to get through with the troop of VISA aspirants facing their counter. But then I believe that your parents do all the job of putting together all the financial documents and stuff. The only thing you need to do is to put a confident self of yours over there. Its not that All the questions i have put here are the only ones, they might come up with any other alien stuff. But then present mindedness and spontaniety is what helps under those situations. You have to be prepared with an answer the moment he shoots a question at you. Dont make a face as if you just committed a sin. Hand over the documents and look at him. Remember , all your documents are as genuine as your Birth-Certificate;).