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, , , . / , , ( ) , : 1. Preface Good wishes for everyone. This article is all about writing a good Statement of Purpose or SOP. I am assuming that everyone who is reading this article knows about an SOP and its importance. I tried to summarize some key points on writing a good SOP and also some difficulties that BUET students usually face. Some thoughts expressed in here are solely mine. This article is an extended version of an email that I posted on Oct 01, 2006 on the csebuet@yahoogroups mailing list. 2. SOP Whats it all about? An SOP is a personal statement that says who you are, what are your intents, and why do you like this career path (You are a dying fan of research or your father wants you to be a doctorkidding, dont do this). At this time when you are thinking of writing an SOP, you should be at the end of your undergrad. That means your cgpa hunt is almost over. You will have to fight with whatever cgpa you have earned so far. Also you might have already finished your GRE and other tests. Hence you have nothing else to do with your scores. The only thing you are left with is the SOP, the ultimate weapon to get a better admission for your graduate study. You cannot control your LOR (Letter of Recommendation) which also has a great impact on your admission result taken by the university admission committee (I do not want to mention the bad practice that we follow for LOR in BUET in this article). Some people ask me questions like this, My cgpa is 3.x, GRE score is abc, my classmates with higher cgpa than mine are also applying for this same university, should I go for it? I usually do not say no to this people unless they have a very low score compared to their high cgpa holder friends. Why? Once I talked to my departmental chairperson about the admission decision procedure for a little bit. She said when they get a lot of good applications with similar good results (which they always have); they pick up the successful ones who look promising. Now you might ask me two questions, a) what band of cgpa will I call similar results and b) how do I define who is promising? For the first question, it has no definite quantitative answer. I would say anything above 3.8 cgpa is similar. Likewise 3.6 to 3.8 may be considered as in a similar band. Others may come up with different ranges. In case of GRE, the same kind of ranging can be done. Now come to the second question, who

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is the promising candidate and how do you prove yourself as a promising candidate to the admission committee. The answer is the SOP. When everyone looks the same in terms of scores, your SOP gives you an edge. You better think of taking this SOP writing job into a serious consideration right away. 3. What do I say in my SOP? Now that you have understood the importance of the SOP, what should you put in your SOP? This question needs a lot of brainstorm to come up with a good answer. Different people will give you different ideas, even though all will circle around some basic ideas its all about you. An SOP is a bigger version of an Elevator Speech, I would say. The admission committee reads hundreds of SOPs each year and they are quite seasoned and bored with reading the same thing again and again. You will have a vantage point only when you write an SOP that attracts the attention of the professor who is bored and tired in late afternoon thinking of going home. Do not write something mediocre by doing some chothabazi. Be genuine. Here comes the big question, How do I attract their attention showing that I am good? There is no direct answer unfortunately and there are no specific rules for doing so. Looks like I do not have any direct answer for anything today. But sometime life is like this. You will have to come up with your own answers. Devise your own game plan. Every SOP is unique in a sense that it tells about a unique person. Find out what makes you unique or special compared to the others. Make a list. Now again you ask me a question (I am never bored with questions, ask me as much as you want), I am the hall champion in playing the Age of Empires, does that make me unique? Umm probably not. You are applying for a graduate admission, keep that in mind. Your research intent, capability, potential, past experience, projects you have done that inspired you to come this far are some points that you can focus on. Just do not say that you are good, passionate, and hard working. Show them with examples that you are really the person that you say. Show them that you are good. When every applicant has good scores the admission committee uses all the scores just as a baseline. But what they really look for is the potential. Scores give the quantitative potential, but the qualitative potential is the key to beat others when everyone is good. So what do you say in your SOP the potential that you have inside you which makes you a perfect candidate for this admission. Just dont say it, show it. 4. What research interest should I put in it? Looks like I am dealing with a lot of questions today. No problem. This one is easy select something that has some implementation or effective output. More precisely, a research field that can earn some revenue (in monetary sense) in the real world. Why do you even care about whether your research topic will earn money? Because the people or organizations who are funding the professors want money. Except some organizations like NSF (National Science Foundation) who give money for advancement of science, everyone is giving this fund so that they can get some output from it in return that will boost their future market. Intel wants more power efficient chip design methodology. You show interest in power-aware chip design; you have a higher chance of getting an admission as most of the chip industries are focusing on power issues nowadays. Maybe you have noticed that Intel is not increasing its microprocessor clock frequency further anymore.

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They are trying to make it more power efficient. Anyway, thats a different topic which is not the focus of this article. So the baseline is, stay away from theoretical computer science topics. Some of you may have interests in theory, but you should be careful that not too many people do research in theory as funding is low in those areas. Low funding means lower admission chance. 5. I had something else in my undergrad thesis!! This is a common problem for most BUET undergrad students. Due to the lack of research opportunities, most of us end up doing something that we do not like. Most frustrating part is that we end up doing our thesis in theory. So when you are writing your SOP, you are confused because you like Computer Architecture but your undergrad thesis is on Graph Theory. Moreover, showing intent in theory may lower your chance of getting the admission. What will you do? My suggestions!! It does not matter if you have your undergrad thesis on something else. The admission committee knows how much research an undergrad can do. They do not expect too much from you. Even though you have done something on a different topic, state your intent clearly. But focus on your passion that you want a research career, you have some research background. Your undergrad thesis might help in this case to prove that you are worthy of doing research. What if you have an MS from BUET? Then you should have a legitimate reason to switch from your MS thesis subject to the new topic that you are going state in your SOP. This is a bad idea I would say, cause coming up with this legitimate reason is not so easy. If you dont want to switch, then thats good. But as I said before, sticking with theoretical research may lower your chance of getting admission. 6. Do research on research You read right, you will have to do research on research. Selecting which university to apply is a big dilemma for a student. One of the key factors that should be considered is what research opportunities are currently going on in that university. Go to their research web pages. Browse thoroughly. Then go to the faculty web pages. Find out what they are doing NOW. Professors generally have interests in multiple related fields. But at some point of time they work on some specific topics. Figure that out. Show your interest in your SOP on that topic. Most probably they have fund on those fields. Sometime looking at research projects web pages help a lot to get some idea about ongoing research fields. 7. Tailor it accordingly May be you are not applying to only one university. Do you write only one SOP for all of them? Maybe not. Because different universities will have research strengths in different fields. You might want to modify your research interests a little bit so that it fits that particular university. As I said in my email, you will have to sell yourself. Give them whatever they want. You do not have to modify the entire SOP, just the place where you show your intent. In this case essentially you are writing only one SOP for all of them but just modifying a little bit to fit a certain university. 8. Consistency in interest Be consistent when you state your research intent. Do not show interest in too many diverse fields. For example, showing interest in both Distributed Systems and VLSI is not a good idea. Maybe Wireless Sensor Networks and Distributed Systems sound a lot more

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consistent. Do not use some fancy words to sound yourself as if you know everything. Be reasonable. Ask your friends and seniors to know which fields are currently most active. Remember Information is the key. You can be miles ahead of others if you know more. If you can say something on these recent areas, it will give you a better position to impress the admission committee. For instance, wireless sensor networks, power-aware chip design are some of the most active research fields nowadays. Others can name more. 9. No paper? You have job experience?? I have a friend who works in one of the telecommunication companies in Dhaka. He is trying hard to get an admission in North America. But sometimes he gets frustrated as he does not have any research experience or any paper published. Is that a big issue if you dont have any paper? I would say no. If you ask the senior students who are already doing their MS/PhD, you will find most of them had no paper published at the time of their admission. As I said before, the admission committee does not ask for too much from an undergrad in terms of previous research activity. You should not forget one thing that you have something else that can be a lot more beneficial - job experience. If you show your research interest that relates to telecommunication, it can be a great plus point. Similarly those who are working in the software industry back in Dhaka can also focus on that. Whatever you have, show it. Sell yourself. 10. Now that you are ready Ok, enough of these vague ideas that I threw over you so far. Lets discuss about something concrete. Now that you have decided what are your interests and all that, how do you start writing your SOP? Following are some key points to consider. This list is not necessarily complete but can be helpful.

a) Take preparation early. It takes time to write a good SOP. At least a month or may be more. Make a list of what points you are going to discuss in it. Find out what are your strengths.

b) Layout a structure. Decide how many paragraphs you will have, what will be the contents of each paragraph. A basic layout of paragraphs can be like this

1. Para I Introduction. State your intent in short. Do you want to have an MS or PhD? What research fields do you like to work on? This intro should be a summary of the remaining paragraphs.

2. Para II - Your educational background. Things you have done that inspired you to take a research oriented career path.

3. Para III - Your research interest and reasons behind selecting that field. This interest can be based on your academic or job experience. Make the relation clear. This paragraph can be decomposed into two paragraphs.\

4. Para IV Reasons behind choosing that particular university. Research activities in that university those attracted your attention.

5. Para V End paragraph focusing on your passion, goal, intent, reasons behind being a perfect candidate for this admission and a nice finish.

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This layout is just an example from the top of my head. You might come up with something more appropriate.

c) Make the introduction attractive so that the reader thinks it is going to be a good one. Attract his attention. State your intent clearly.

d) Do not write a lengthy SOP. The reader does not have too much time to spend on one. Be concise. The optimal size of an SOP should be within two pages.

e) Do not start with your childhood fascination with computer, the day your father bought you a computer and you fell in love with it. Dont be funny.

f) Be coherent in each paragraph. Keep the transition from one sentence to another smooth. The flow of the writing is too much important. Keep the flow smooth when you start a new paragraph. There should be a connection between two consecutive paragraphs so that the reader does not feel lost.

g) Never use any kind of negative tone, use active voice. h) In one of the paragraphs, state the reason behind choosing that particular

university that made you interested about that university. i) Five to six paragraph should be sufficient. j) Use standard font and font size. Do not use any kind of fancy font. Be professional. k) Focus on teamwork. People in here want a person to be team oriented. l) State the reason behind choosing a certain research area. m) Leave a sense of completion when you finish. Do not just cut off at some point.

The reader should feel that you have said everything and nothing else is left. n) You can collect some sample SOPs from others to get an idea on how to write a

good one. But never ever copy. Be genuine, be yourself. o) After writing a draft copy, print it and proofread. Correct the errors and again print

and proofread, three times at least. The reader will reject you as soon as he finds that you do not know the basic rules of grammar. These people read hundreds of technical reports. They do not like grammatical mistakes at all. You mush have 0% tolerance for grammatical mistakes.

p) Get corrections from at least two people. One who knows English grammar better and one who knows how to write a good SOP. Do not rely on your own instinct. Opinion from a different persons perspective always helps.

q) Do not use tough words, like GRE words. It might be tempting to use those words as you might have just completed your GRE. But avoid this. Do not put too much shahitto in your writing. Use simple words and simple sentences. Do not use long complex sentences.

r) You can also get some help online. There are tons of websites that can help you to write a better SOP.

s) Do not procrastinate. Start writing today. Again I am telling you, it takes time. Edit, proofread, print, rewrite again and again until you are happy. Dont be happy too early. Criticize yourself. You are not competing with only other BUET people; hundreds of students from other countries are also competing at the same time.

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11. Finally Yes, finally I am done. But there is a big journey ahead of you. Be confident. Be positive. Wish you a big a success.

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FF11 vviissaa QQuueessttiioonnss yyoouu mmaayy bbee aasskkeedd dduurriinngg vviissaa

iinntteerrvviieeww iinn DDhhaakkaa EEmmbbaassssyy F1 visa Questions you may be asked during visa interview in Dhaka Embassy. Country related: 1) Why are you going to US? 2) This subjects are taught in Bangladesh why specifically US? University related: 1. which universities -accepted you? 2. what is your CGPA? 3. Tell me about the university you are going? 4. Mention some professors names? 5. When did you get your Bachelors degree? 6. Why did you select this university over other universities? 7. How long will you study in USA? 8. Where did you hear about this university? 9. What is your academic background? 10. Do you pIan to study PhD after MS or BS ? 12. Why did you apply to these universities?

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Financial related: 1. Who is sponsoring you? 2. What does your father do? 3. What is your father's income? 4. What is your university yearly expense? 5. Have you got any loans? 6. Show your Pass Bank Statement? 7. How will you finance your education? 8. Your bank statement shows that a large amount of money has recently been deposited? How do you explain that? Family related: 1. How many brother and sisters do you have? 2. Do you have any relatives in USA? 3. What is your mother? 4. Where did your brother / parents complete their studies? 5. Where do your parents live? 6. Do you have a brother/ sister, or any other relative already at this university? Job/ Work related: 1. Why are you leaving you current job?'(if you are working) 2. Show me your experience certificate? 3. Are you planning to work this same university after your PhD? General Questions: 1. What-du you expect after returning back? 2. Why du plan to do MS/PhD? 3. Why are your GRE / TOEFL scores low? 4. You look like a potential immigrant or I don't think you will come back? 5. What-do you know about US education? 7. Why are you applying for Fall only? 8. What will you do after completing MS/PhD? Or What are your plans graduation? 9. Did you get any scholarship? 10. Tell me how you can prove that you are going to come back 11. Have you ever been to US? 12. What will you do after coming back? 13. Do you know any one (in USA) in your university? 14. What will you do if your visa is rejected? 15. Will you come home during your summer vacation? 16. Why do you think the university is giving you a scholarship? 17. Why did you change your field from Electrical Engg to Computer science?

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1) Must be a bonafide student 2) Must be able to show the fund for his education 3) Must have an intention to back in his home country.

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F-1 Visa F-1 Visa F-1 Visa Non Immigrant Visa, the person applying for it has no intent to immigrate to the United States and it is the persons responsibility to prove this towards the visa officer

F-1 Visa ? 1. Students can study and work in the university they have got I-20 For. 2. Students can work on campus in the University for the prescribed number of

hours 3. Students can take internship work on CPT/OPT. 4. Students can utilize scholarships awarded to them. 5. Students can bring in their spouse and kids to USA. 6. Students can invite their Parents to USA.

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Students attend the visa seminar and hear about the visa process from w. Hammaker.

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For instance, take the requirement of showing that you will return to Bangladesh. 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.

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US Embassy Visa officials know that documents in Bangladesh 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."

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US embassy Annex J Block, Progoti sharani, Baridhara, Dhaka-1212 Phone: (880) (2) 8855500 Ext. 2832 Fax: (880) (2) 9881677 Email: EducationUSA-Bangla@state.gov Website: http://dhaka.usembassy.gov/advising.html www.educationusa.state.gov Hours: Sunday - Thursday 10:00am-4:30pm (except holidays)

How to Convince visa officer in US embassy!!! Many students who visit US Embassies report varying outcomes from their student visa Interview. On a given day in the same embassy two persons, one with a solid financial structure. The other with some contrived documents, approach the same counselor seeking a student visa. The well-grounded person is denied, but the imposter gets a student visa, It happens all the time and everywhere. Why? It is an inexact science. The counselor is making a subjective decision based on some cues that he is trained to observe, It is those subjective nuances that can affect your outcome, and I will attempt to address them here.

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The visa interview is two human beings interacting with each other face to face. Therefore, human factors will intervene regardless of the presence or absence of objective criteria. So haw do you combat that? Simple, apply what you know about basic human behavior. Use your interpersonal skills to your advantage HOW YOU LOOK First thing is appearance. Dress neatly but not in a pretentious fashion. Don't wear too much makeup; don't wear an earring if you are male; dont wear large or multiple earrings if you are female; dont have an exotic hairstyle; dont use artificial hair color if that is obvious; dont chew gum; don't wear revealing clothing. These are just some of the obvious things that can hurt your case. What are the positives? How you say, what you say: Speak clearly! If you have an accent or are not 100% comfortable in English, speak slowly, Answer questions politely in short sentences. Ask information for clarification but do not argue. If things appear to be going badly, then listen to the counselors concerns. It is better to address those concerns and return a few days later rather than get an outright denial from trying to argue. lf he is expressing doubts unless you have the items that can clarify or satisfy his doubt. you are better advised to return another day better armed. Often, you will get that chance to correct the problem without paying another fee. Like ability is the key. If person likes you, there is a greater chance ne will give you a positive result Smile, be pleasant, explain your self clearly, provide answers in a non combative tone and be ready to think quickly on your feet. The 214 B Reality...!!!! Section 214(b) is part of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). It states: Every alien shall be presumed to be an immigrant until he establishes to the satisfaction of the consular officer, at the time of application for admission, that he is entitled to a non immigrant status.. Normally if you are denied a Student visa the consular officer might say something like: Your visa application is refused, You are not qualified under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act The 214 B reality is there. You might have to answer some hypothetical questions about your intentions that could get you in trouble. Remember the burden of proof that you must withstand and answer those questions to the best of your ability in that light If you are really an intended immigrant or plans to remain in the USA then legally you do not qualify for a student visa. The reality is that a significant percentage of prospective international students, particularly from the developing world are in fact

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intended immigrants-meaning they have no intentions of returning home after their studies. The key issue remaining, therefore, is are you a legitimate student likely to complete this degree in the lime frame allowed? If yes, and if the funding is there the visa will likely be there also, and you are on your way to studying in the United States. Many perceive this topic of Student visa to be complex because of rumors and anecdotes that are in circulation. Never buy into rumors and hearsay. When in doubt use your best judgment based on facts you have gathered from reputable sources. I will best of luck every one for there US student Visa.

A Message for Students Planning to Study in the United States. David Donahue; Deputy Assistant Secretary for Visa Services Washington, DC Hi, my name is David Donahue, and I am Deputy Assistant Secretary for Visa Services at the State Department. Congratulations on your acceptance to a community college, vocational school, college or university in the United States. Now that you have your acceptance letter from an accredited U.S. educational institution, you are hopefully preparing for the student visa application process. Applying for a student visa is straightforward and the vast majority of applicants are successful. Last year we issued visas to more than 86 percent of those applying for student, exchange, and vocational visas. In number, we issued 715,000 student, exchange, and vocational visas worldwide. We are happy to welcome all international students to our country. You bring valuable skills and knowledge to our classrooms, and contribute to advancements in academic fields through your work and research. This summer our embassies and consulates abroad are seeing record numbers of students applying for visas to study in the United States. Many of you have already successfully completed the visa application process. Congratulations. As the rest of you prepare for your student visa application, let me share with you three important tips. 1.Apply early

Our goal is to help every qualified student visa applicant begin his or her program of study on time. Its important to schedule your appointment as early as possible. While first-time students can enter the United States only 30 days before studies begin, a student visa can be issued up to 120 days before. Most visa applications are processed in a few days, but there are times when we may require additional information or additional processing time, and it helps to have the time to do this before your expected travel date.

2.Be informed Our website at travel.state.gov is your number one resource for U.S. student visa information. Then you should visit the website of the embassy or consulate where you will be applying. These websites provide valuable information about the interview process, such as how to schedule an appointment and what to

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expect during the interview. Our embassies and consulates have procedures to expedite appointments for student visa applicants, so be sure to look for this information if you are having difficulties getting a visa appointment on time.

3.Be prepared In addition to the normal visa requirements, you must present certain information such as your I-20 form, your SEVIS fee receipt, and proof of ability to pay for your education. Our websites have detailed information on what you will need to bring with you to the interview, so be prepared. Once you have your visa, we can also help you prepare for your arrival in the United States. You can find answers to Frequently Asked Questions ontravel.state.gov or visit EducationUSA.state.gov for tips on planning your departure, traveling to the United States, and finding housing. We continue to look for ways to improve the student visa process to ensure that everyone who qualifies and has a legitimate desire to study in the United States has that opportunity. We hope all of you who will be studying here have a rich and rewarding experience full of learning opportunities, friendships, and the chance to see more of the United States. Once again congratulations and welcome.

Student visa advice & information from Chief, Consular Section U.S. Embassy, Dhaka The U.S. Embassy welcomes students from Bangladesh who aim to pursue higher education at American institutions. We welcome undergraduate students, and especially those who have gained admission to Masters and PhD programs. In addition to qualifying for admission to an academic program, students must also qualify for a U.S. student visa. Students are encouraged to visit the American Center in Banani for group and individual counseling, before applying for a student visa. (See contact information below.) Q. What do I need to do to qualify for a student visa? Ans. Many factors are taken into consideration to assess if an applicant is qualified for a U.S. student visa. First, students must be accepted to a reputable U.S. educational institution, reflected by an I-20 form from the school you will attend. Secondly, the applicant must demonstrate that they will have sufficient resources to pay for the proposed course of education. Applicant must also demonstrate strong English fluency. Finally, the applicant will be assessed for the seriousness of their educational purpose. In assessing the applicant, the consular officer will consider several factors, include the educational program applied for, prior educational experiences and qualifications, and

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the students stated motives. Q. Currently I am enrolled in a PhD program in the US, and I am newly married. When my wife applied for a visa to accompany me to the US, she was denied. Why did this happen? Ans. Applicants for a student visas and also the spouses of students must independently demonstrate strong linkages to their country of origin, and an intention to return to their country after their studies are completed in the U.S. This legal requirement is often very difficult for students to meet; sometimes it is even harder for the spouses of students. All U.S. student visa holders should be careful when getting married there is no guarantee that a husband or wife will be able to join the student visa holder in the U.S. Q. Last year, my friend was accepted to a U.S. college, and was conditionally approved for a visa. However, he lost his place when additional processing by the Embassy took one month to complete and he could not start the program on time. What can I do to avoid this problem? Ans. To address the problem you raised, the US government has invested one million dollars in automating the system for administrative processing. New software has converted an old paper-based system to being completely electronic. We are also prioritizing student applications: we have extended the period of time during which students can apply for visas to 120 days before the start of their studies, to allow extra time for any needed additional processing. We have made sure that students and exchange visitors around the world receive priority scheduling for visa appointments and that their applications are processed promptly. In Dhaka, student visa applicants receive appointments within two workdays; after the interview, issuances take generally no more than three weeks. Current statistics reveal the strength of the United States commitment to welcoming international students and scholars. In 2006, the Department of State issued more than 590,000 visas for international academic and vocational students and exchange visitors to study or conduct research in the United States a historic record. This figure is 14% higher than last year, and more than 5% above the previous high in 2001. We welcome students from around the world, for they will be the next generation of world leaders: former presidents of France, Indonesia, and Mexico; the king of Jordan; the UN

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Secretary General; and President Iajuddin Ahmed of Bangladesh, to name just a few, all studied in the United States.

A View From Behind the Glass: Student Visa Advice From a U.S. Visa Office of New Delhi Over the last decade, nearly one million Indian students were granted visas to study in the United States. Every one of them appeared before an American visa officer for an interview. If you have applied for a U.S. visa, you too have come face-to-face with one of us. Have you ever wondered who the visa officers are that will approve or deny your visa? When I was a child, I did not dream of becoming a visa officer when I grew up. Even as a young adult, first majoring in literature and then taking up teaching, it did not occur to me that I would one day sit on a high stool behind a glass window at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi and adjudicate visas. But for the last nine months, I have been doing just that -- almost 100 interviews a day. I mention this by way of reminding you that visa officers are people too. We come from a variety of backgrounds. We once were lawyers, teachers, IT professionals, even fire fighters. But at some point in our lives, we took the Foreign Service written test, passed the day-long oral exam, and, after extensive training, became diplomats. Most of us are on our first or second tours. We joined the Foreign Service because we are interested in other cultures. Most of us are here because we chose to come to India. We visit the Taj Mahal; we read Chetan Bhagat's novels; we watch Delhi Belly; we love butter chicken. We want to be here, and we enjoy talking with you. A lot of us studied Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, or Bengali for several months before we came to India so that we can conduct interviews with applicants who do not speak English. We might not be fluent or flawless, but we can ask a few basic questions: What is the purpose of your travel? Who do you know in America? How long do you plan to stay? Usually, we can understand the answers; when we do not, we ask our Indian colleagues to translate. Every day in New Delhi, eight or nine officers interview hundreds of people seeking visas to the United States. Because we try to serve as many applicants as we can, the interviews are quite short -- only two to three minutes. A lot of the information that we need is already there in your application, but we like to hear from you, personally, about your travel plans. Sometimes, visa applicants bring stacks of documents, and they seem disappointed when we do not look at all that paperwork. But the idea of a personal interview is to speak with you face-to-face -- not to examine documents.

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Our job is to uphold the law. Sometimes that means denying a visa. If you apply for a tourist visa, but we get the idea from the interview that you are really going to work at your uncle's pizza shop, then we will not issue the visa. Students who only apply to one school and cannot explain their choice are also unlikely to be granted a visa. It is important that your intentions match your visa category. Many visa applicants pay consultants to prepare their applications. Although some consultants might provide helpful information, many do not. Remember that you alone are responsible for the accuracy of the information in your application. False information on the application or fake document packages could result in permanent ineligibility. If you are a student, we expect you to be credible and qualified. You should be prepared to talk about why you chose the university that you plan to attend, and you should be able to explain how you will pay for your studies. It should be easy for us to believe that you will finish the degree at the institution you have selected, and we must be convinced that full-time study is the primary purpose of your travel. It is best to apply early, but not before you have heard from your first-choice school. (Your visa will be annotated with the name of the school listed on your I-20 form at the time of your interview.) You can apply for a visa up to 120 days before your program is scheduled to begin. However, you may not enter the U.S. more than 30 days before the report date for your course. If you are applying for graduate work, be sure to apply as early as you can, as sometimes administrative processing is required that might delay the issuance of your visa. Nearly 104,000 Indians are currently studying in the United States. Like you, they were nervous when they faced the American visa officer behind the glass. The situation, admittedly, does not put one at ease. However, if you know yourself to be a credible, qualified student, then you should have nothing to worry about. Take a deep breath, relax, and remember that the person behind the glass is there to help you. We are regular people too -- just like you. By :Monica Shie serves as a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India.

F1 Visa Interview tips for US embassy Dhaka F1 Visa Interview tips for US embassy Dhaka These are very few tips. 1. Develop your self-confidence 3-4 weeks before your interview 2. Choose your dress and attire 2 weeks before your interview 3. Groom your hair 3-4 days before your interview. Not too short or too long

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4. Arrange your documents in order 2 days before the interview. There is a specific order you can follow, I have mentioned that in previous article. 5. Expect slower traffic, don't be late 6. Be confidence in your body language when standing on line (Yes sir visa officer is watching you. It does matter) 7. When visa officer calls you wish them with a smile 8. Answer to the point. Your answers should be not more than 1-2 lines. 9. Always be very polite to the Visa Officer 10. Your voice should be just loud enough while answering, 11. Don't show any sign of nervousness in your face or voice. Nervousness is the sign of weakness and visa officers can quickly find out. 12. You should have the concrete proof for each and everything you present to the officer. 13. Have all proofs in writing. For example: print of communication with university, emails etc.. not just your I-20. 14. They usually make decision in the first 60 seconds. Whatever you do in the first 1 minute makes huge impact on your visa decision. 16. Once the visa is approved thank the officer and exit. What is Social Security Number (SSN)? In the United States, a Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary (working) residents. The number is issued to an individual by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Its primary purpose is to track individuals for Social Security purposes. Then came the IRS, Banks and others who began using SSN for identification purpose. The SSN is generally required by financial institutions to set up bank accounts,credit cards, loans, partially because it is assumed that no one except the person to whom it was issued will know it. SSN Format

SSN Card The nine-digit SSN is composed of three parts: AAA-GG-SSSS The first set of three digits is called theArea Number The second set of two digits is called theGroup Number The final set of four digits is the Serial Number

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SSN Types The first type of card shows your name and Social Security number and lets you

work without restriction. We issue it to: o U.S. citizens; and o People lawfully admitted to the United States on a permanent basis. The second type of card shows your name and number and notes, VALID FOR

WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION. We issue this type of card to people lawfully admitted to the United States on a temporary basis who have DHS authorization to work.

The third type of card shows your name and number and notes, NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT. We issue it to people from other countries:

o Who are lawfully admitted to the United States without work authorization from DHS, but with a valid nonwork reason for needing a Social Security number; or

o Who need a number because of a federal law requiring a Social Security number to get a benefit or service.

How to Get SSN To apply for a Social Security number and card: Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and Show us original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency proving: o U.S. citizenship or immigration status [including Department of Homeland

Security (DHS) permission to work in the United States]; o Age; and o Identity. Then, take or mail your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office. Citizenship or immigration status: We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current U.S. immigration documents. Acceptable documents include your: Form I-551 (includes machine- readable immigrant visa with your unexpired

foreign passport); I-94 with your unexpired foreign passport; or Work permit from DHS (I-766). International students must present further documentation. Age: You must present your birth certificate. Identity: We can accept only certain documents as proof of identity. An acceptable document must be current (not expired) and show your name, identifying information

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and preferably a recent photograph. Social Security will ask to see a U.S. drivers license, state-issued nondriver identification card or U.S. passport as proof of identity. If you do not have the specific documents we ask for, we will ask to see other documents including: Employee ID card; School ID card; Health insurance card (not a Medicare card); U.S. military ID card; Adoption decree; Life insurance policy; or Marriage document (only in name change situations). All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.We may use one document for two purposes. For example, we may use your U.S. passport as proof of both citizenship and identity. Or, we may use your U.S. birth certificate as proof of age and citizenship. However, you must provide at least two separate documents. We will mail your number and card as soon as we have all of your information and have verified your documents with the issuing offices. What is H1b visa (work permit for students in USA after study onF1 visa)? H1B Visa The H1B visa program is the major method for employers to hire International professionals and International students to work in the USA. The H1B visa enables US employers to hire foreign professionals for a specified period of time. The H1B program allows specialty occupation workers to work in the US for up to a total of six years. H1b is a "dual intent" visa. This means that a visa will not be denied simply because a person has intentions to become a permanent resident. The assumption is that if for some reason the permanent residency petition is denied, the person would still have the intention to return home. Aside from documenting that the position offered is in a specialty occupation and that the employee has the appropriate credentials for the job, the employer needs to verify that the H1B visa worker is being paid the prevailing wage for the work being performed and that employment of a foreign worker is not harming conditions for US workers. Specialty occupation A specialty occupation is one that requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and a bachelors or higher degree (or its equivalent) in the specific specialty. For example, architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine and health, education, business specialties, accounting, law, theology, and the arts are specialty occupations.

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To get a h1b visa you should work in one of the specialty occupation. Duration of Stay on H1B The duration of stay is three years, extendable to six. An exception to maximum length of stay applies in certain circumstances. one-year extensions if a labor certification application has been filed and is pending for at least 365 days; and three-year extensions if an I-140 Immigrant Petition has been approved. Despite a limit on length of stay, no requirement exists that the individual remain for any period in the job the visa was originally issued for. This is known as H1B portability or transfer, provided the new employer sponsors another H1B visa, which may or may not be subjected to the quota. Under current law, H1B visa has no stipulated grace period in the event the employer-employee relationship ceases to exist. How many H1B visas Available? The current law limits to 65,000 the number of aliens who may be issued a visa or otherwise provided H-1B status each fiscal year (FY). The numerical limitation was temporarily raised to 195,000 in FY2001, FY2002 and FY2003. In addition, excluded from the ceiling are all H-1B non-immigrants who work at (but not necessarily for) universities and non-profit research facilities. This means that contractors working at, but not directly employed by the institution may be exempt from the cap. Free Trade Agreements allow a carve out from the numerical limit of 1,400 for Chilean nationals and 5,400 for Singapore nationals. Laws also exempt up to 20,000 foreign nationals holding a masters or higher degree from U.S. universities from the cap on H-1B visas. The Department of Homeland Security approved about 132,000 H-1B visas in 2004 and 117,000 in 2005. Special Quota for Masters Students in USA?.. 20,000 special quota of h1b visas available for masters studetns in USA. H1B Visa Quota 2013 The H1B visa program is the major method for employers to hire International professionals and International students to work in the USA. The H1B visa enables US employers to hire foreign professionals for a specified period of time. The H1B program allows specialty occupation workers to work in the US for up to a total of six years.

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How many HB Visas (work authorization visas) available for Masters Students in USA for 2013 Quota? 20,000 special limit in there for Masters Graduates from USA in Advanced Degree Quota. General Quota limit is 65,000. General Quota is intended to hire workers from countries like India, China, Canada, Philippines etc. Will there be tight competition for masters quota in 2013 H1B Applications? No. Prediction is that even 2012 Quota will also fill slowly. But try to file ti H1B petition as early as possible. When should I apply for H1B quota 2013? USCIS will start accepting H1b applications for Y2013 quota from April 1st 2012. So, your employer can apply at any time after this date before the cap is reached. I am on OPT status. How should I apply to H1B? To apply for H1B quota in 2013 OPT students need to find an employer for visa sponsoring. Your employer/company will apply visa for you. If your visa is approved your H1B status will start from October 1st 2012. How do I know if my H1B application is approved? USCIS will send form I797 to your company lawyer after your H1B approval. Form I797 will also have an attached I94. What if my H1B is rejected? Get a new job with a different employer and apply for new H1B. Do I need to attend for visa stamping in India if I my H1B is approved? You should attend for visa stamping at US consulate only if you travel outside of United States. In other cases you dont need a visa stamping. Is Self Sponsoring of H1B Visa possible? No, you cant sponsor by your own. A company should apply for you.

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Here it goes:

1. Now if you apply for USA, They will give you 5 years visa. That does not

mean that you are valid here for 5 years. You will get your 2 years designated

time for studies.

2. I got 5 years Visa.(Duration of my Masters is 2 years)

3. In first 1 year you are only allowed to work on campus and that is very hard to

come by. Actually I should say it's rather competitive. But students apparently do

odd jobs and you will find one.

4. After the completion of your studies here, They will provide you almost 3

months grace period to find a job. If you can't find a job then you can apply for

OPT(Optional Practical Training) under a consultancy farm for almost 1 year.

That farm will train you for a job and will assist you to get one. Once you get a

job , Your employer will sponsor your VISA and then you will move to H1B

status from your F1 student Visa. The US law says, once you are under H1B

VISA then you are eligible to apply for the green card after 3 years. So, If you

want to stay here then there are loop holes to find a way.

I hope I answered everything. My Bengali typing is very bad as I told you earlier.

As a matter of fact I wrote it this way.

If you have any more things to know, just feel free to ask me.

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GMAT

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H1B VISA

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IELTS is a mandatory thing to get the admission. Its not that difficult you know.

GMAT is a must for the good business schools. There are number of business

schools where you can get admission without GMAT but I would suggest you

not to go for those. Just go for GMAT and whatever score you get is enough for

any of the schools among those best 500 out of 5500 universities in USA.

I understand you have a lot of relatives here. But my friend, life here is so

practical and people are always running like Robots. Nobody will help you in

that content. I am there to offer any help as I am not an American minded guy

anyways . I told you this just to make sure that you limit your expectancy. I

believe you are a self dependent guy and you are quite capable to do everything

on your own. To be very honest with you, USA is the country of opportunity.

So,your potential will guide you through the tough days.

OPT is basically given under the supervision of any organization, they will train

you for the job field. There is a deal with them which differs place to place.

usually they take 40/60 of your total salary for first 6 months when you get a job

through there network. They assist you with some money during the OPT period

but thats as low as 300USD/month.

Your Visa will be extended, Dont worry:)

Computer literacy,PHP,Web development are quite a necessity here. So, this will

always help you to find work. But if you study in business then you have to do a

job in related field in order to get the H1B visa. But, yes! This experiences will

assist you to earn money.

Usually,Its good to have your father as your sponsor. But anyone has a strong tie

with you can be your sponsor. Amount of the money depends on your total

tuition fees plus accommodation for the first year of your study. It usually varies

from 15-30 lacs BDT.

There is a consultancy farm in Banani 11 no road called TPNL. Shariful bhai is

the managing director. You can go there and tell my name. Tell him that you are

my childhood friend. He will work for you. Dont worry about his charge. I am

here to back you up.

Canadian VISA is a sensative one. They have strong screening process and its

hard to get jobs in Canada compared to USA. Once you get into USA then you

can go to Canada easily but the vice versa is not possible.

Spouse Visa processing is almost similar. You dont worry about that as well.

I hope, I am answering you well..hehehe:D

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Dost,lot of people will confuse you with lot of gullible things

the real thing is its possible to come with your wife all together and its possible to get good funding with scholarship

in USA and If u can manage a professor that will be great I

came here with a very little scholarship but Alhamdulillah, I

received the research assistantship along with teaching

assistantship now so,if u come and perform there will be

windows of opportunities

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