Watch this guide as a video
What is happening at the US Embassy in India right now
With COVID cases rising sharply across India and lockdowns in place in most states, the US Embassy announced a temporary closure until May 15. Starting from the last week of April, appointments began being cancelled in large numbers across all embassy locations. If you received a cancellation notice or a deferral message, this is why — it is not specific to your case. It is happening to everyone.
The encouraging news is that the Embassy has specifically stated that F1 student visas will be given priority once operations resume. They have committed to honouring F1 appointments as soon as possible. Emergency appointments are also being granted in exceptional circumstances. If you believe you qualify for one, you can write directly to the Embassy support team at SUPPORT-INDIA@USATRAVELDOCS.COM.
What about the US travel ban on India — does it affect students?
The US introduced a travel ban on travellers from India starting May 4. I know that sounds alarming if you are planning to fly to the US for your fall semester — but here is the key detail: students are explicitly exempted from this ban. Under the National Interest Exemption, if you have secured admission for a fall semester starting in August, the travel ban does not apply to you. You can still travel to the US to begin your studies.
Four things you should do right now
1. Stay calm — you have more time than you think
I know having your appointment cancelled feels awful, especially in an already uncertain situation. But it is still early. Colleges are due to start in August, which means you have two to three months of buffer time to get your visa sorted and plan your travel. You do not need to panic. The single most useful thing you can do right now is stay calm and stay patient.
Want personalized feedback on your answers?
Shachi does 1-on-1 mock interviews — get real-time coaching before your consulate visit.
Book a Mock Interview2. Check for appointment slots — twice a day
After May 15, the Embassy is expected to begin reopening F1 visa appointments. You need to stay on top of slot availability from that point. I recommend checking at least twice a day — early morning and late at night — because that is typically when new slots are released. You should also join Telegram groups and WhatsApp groups where students are actively tracking and sharing slot availability. The moment a slot opens, you want to know about it immediately.
3. Keep your location flexible
Do not wait for a slot to open specifically in your city. Be prepared to travel anywhere in India for your F1 interview. Flexibility here could be the difference between getting your visa in time for your semester and missing out. Wherever the appointment becomes available first, go there.
4. Use this time to prepare thoroughly
This waiting period is actually an opportunity. Use it to make sure everything on your end is completely ready so that the moment a slot opens, you can book it and walk in confident. That means keeping your DS-160 form filled and up to date, preparing and organising your documents, and practising your interview answers so you are ready to go without any last-minute scrambling.
How to prepare for your F1 interview while you wait
If you want structured help getting ready, I offer one-to-one consultation sessions where I walk through your specific profile and situation with you. I also offer video mock interviews — these are done over a video call and are designed to feel as close to the real interview as possible. And if you prefer to prepare at your own pace, my F1 interview prep course has modules, templates, and sample answers you can work through whenever suits you. Links to all of these are available on this site. In the meantime, stay safe and take good care of yourself and your family.
Need help with your visa preparation?
Have questions after reading this guide? I’m happy to help.
Chat with Shachi on WhatsAppNext steps
Continue your preparation with these resources.
