Calmly answer the questions

The norms and processes of a visa application differ depending on where you are planning to go study. For countries such as Canada and Australia, a visa interview is conditional; so the chance of being asked to come in for a one-on-one interview is a little less. The U.K. considers India a high-risk country, as a number of fraud applicants apply from here to try to go and live there, so the British High Commission may, but not necessarily, call you in for a full interview as well.

Always be sure to check the official embassy or high commission website of the country you are applying to, the best source of official information you require for your application can always be found there.

A former student applicant says

“First you need to get all your documents ready such as college’s acceptance letter, place where you will be staying, your payment slip, who is going to sponsor your study abroad trip and how, mark sheets, birth certificate, passport, tickets,” said Akumla Alexzandria, who applied for a student visa when she was going to study for her Masters at Webster University at  Regent’s University London.

“It was a long process though and I really worked hard to get all my details right so that my student visa would be accepted,” she said.

Once you have prepared the documents, you must apply to the visa office of the country you are applying to, for an appointment. Alexzandria says she was asked to submit her documents, provide her biometric information, and was asked about the college she was planning to attend. It is imperative to have all your documents in order, she says.

If you want to ace your visa application, here are some of our top tips:

Organize your documents

Make sure you have followed the checklist for required documents and organize them into a packet. Always keep an extra copy of every document. Have your  visa appointment letter, passport (in original as well as copies),  educational transcripts, relevant test scores (TOEFL, SAT, GRE, IELTS or GMAT), fees to be submitted before the interview, and most recent passport sized photograph copies, as well as any other documents each individual country may require.

Reach your appointment ahead of time and be well dressed

You might have already heard this sentence plenty of times from your parents or teacher; but being on time and dressing well can really help your chances of getting your visa quickly and with less stress.Your body language and dressing style conveys it all, so being appropriately dressed and presentable will help you create a positive impact.

Stay calm and confident

Self-assurance is important

Be confident about why you want to go that particular country and about the course and university you chose.

Some of the questions that you might be asked are:

• Why did you choose this country for your higher studies?
• Isn’t this course available in your country?
• Where is the university located?
• What is the course structure?
• What is your financial source?
• Do you have any proof of your financial source supporting your course?

The key to answering the questions is knowing your information and conveying it in a simple, confident manner. Don't fidget, and don't over-talk the answers.

Tags: Applying for a student visa, study in US, study in UK, study in Canada, study in Australia, visa interview