Succeed at Your U.S. Visa Interview
You cannot enter the U.S. or participate in your program without a visa. Last year 41% of visa applications were denied. With the right preparation, you can increase your chances of passing your interview.
Our pick for: Simplicity and value
Our top pick: We recommend CampusSIMs as the best overall option for most students and scholars. Their plans provide the best value, and we love the simplicity of the sign up process.


Preparation Options
Free Resources
Review the Visa Interview page on your Homebase module. You can also find other free resources from former Visa Officers, such as videos on YouTube or blog posts.
Often free advice is bad advice so be sure to only use reputable sources.
Online Courses
These online courses are built by former Visa Officers and will improve your chances in your interview.
Interview Prep Course ![]() Interview Prep Course | 🔥 MOST POPULAR Complete F-1 Course ![]() Complete F-1 Course | F/M/J Visa Masterclass ![]() F/M/J Visa Masterclass | |
---|---|---|---|
Price | $199 | $299 | $92 |
Visa Categories | F-1 | F-1 | F-1, J-1, or M-1 |
Step-by-step DS-160 guidance | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
Interview preparation strategies | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Q&A access with former visa officers | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Common visa mistakes & how to avoid them | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
OPT/CPT guidance | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
Handling visa refusals & administrative processing | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Resources & toolkits | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Pricing | $199 | $299 | $92 |
One-on-One Consultations
These consultations will help you craft the most compelling case–whether you need a mock interview, help explaining your specific circumstances, or just want general advice.
Visas 101
Whether you’re applying for an F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa, or a B1/B2 visitor visa, Visas 101 provides one-on-one consultations, expert-led masterclasses, downloadable resources, and monthly Q&A sessions to simplify the process and to give you the best chance at succeeding during your visa interview.
Visas 101 Basic ![]() Visas 101 Basic | Visas 101 Premium ![]() Visas 101 Premium | |
---|---|---|
Price | $200 | $450 |
Length | 20 min | 45 min |
Case Evaluation | ✅ | ✅ |
Personalized Strategy & Coaching | ✅ | ✅ |
Mock Interview | ❌ | ✅ |
Ability to Include a Guest | ❌ | ❌ |
Consultation in Native Language | ❌ | ❌ |
Q&A with Former Visa Officer | ✅ | ✅ |
Audio Recording of Consultation(you should just record it yourself!) | ❌ | ❌ |
Argo Visa
Argo offers a premium service at a higher price. They help visa applicants prepare for their U.S. visa interviews with expert guidance from former Visa Officers.
Argo Basic ![]() Argo Basic | 🔥 MOST POPULAR Argo Standard ![]() Argo Standard | Argo Premium ![]() Argo Premium | |
---|---|---|---|
Price | $479 | $639 | $789 |
Length | 30 min | 45 min | 60 min |
Case Evaluation | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Personalized Strategy & Coaching | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Mock Interview | ❌ | ✅ | 2+ |
Ability to Include a Guest | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Consultation in Native Language | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Q&A with Former Visa Officer | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Audio Recording of Consultation(you should just record it yourself!) | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Frequently Asked Questions
The interview itself is usually very short, often less than five minutes! However, long wait times at the embassy mean you should arrive early and be prepared.
No, only applicants are allowed inside the embassy. However, you can practice beforehand with a consultant or friend.
Dress professionally, but there is no need for formal wear. Business casual is a safe choice.
You will receive a reason for the denial. Some denials can be overcome by reapplying with stronger documentation. A visa consultation can help you understand your options.
You can apply up to 365 days before your program starts. However, you cannot enter the U.S. more than 30 days before your start date. Apply as early as possible. Wait times are increasing.
Start Preparing Today
Getting your visa approved is a huge step toward achieving your dreams. Don’t leave it to chance.