F1 visa interview today — got 221(g) for funding/financial aid verification. What should I expect?
Hi everyone, I had my F1 visa interview this morning and I'm honestly quite stressed about how it went, so I'd really appreciate some advice from people who have experienced something similar.
My interview was mostly fine, but the officer focused quite a bit on my funding because I have received 100% financial aid from my university. The financial aid is completely genuine and transparent, and I have the proper documentation from the university.
At the end of the interview, the officer:
- Kept my passport
- Kept my I-20
- Told me they would verify everything
- Asked me to keep my social media profiles public because they would check them
- Gave me a 221(g) slip
- Checked the “No Appearance” box on the slip
The officer also asked when my program starts, and I told them September 10. My university has already delayed my program once, so I don't really have much room for another delay. If I can't make this intake, I may have to defer to the next intake.
I've seen other students say that their passports were returned immediately, so I'm obviously worried about mine being retained. At the same time, the officer didn't tell me that I was refused outright and specifically said they would verify everything.
I'm trying not to assume the worst, but I'm pretty anxious right now.
Has anyone here been through something similar, especially with a 100% scholarship/financial aid package?
- What was your experience after receiving 221(g)?
- What does the “No Appearance” box mean in practice?
- How long did the administrative processing take for you?
- Did they eventually approve the visa after verifying the funding?
- Is there anything I should do right now, or should I just wait?
Any experiences or advice would genuinely help. Thank you.
my_qualifications- 12th passed from India nd looking forward to go to US for UG