After months of inactivity, the United States has begun releasing visa appointment slots for F-1 student visa applicants. However, these slots are disappearing within minutes of being made available, triggering panic and anxiety among students who fear they may not secure appointments before the start of their academic sessions this Fall at US schools and colleges.
Delays After Social Media Vetting
Similar to the H-1B visa category, F-1 student visa processing saw months of dormancy following the introduction of social media vetting in December 2025. Now, slots are being released in tranches, and they are being booked almost instantly. According to the latest updates, a massive batch of slots was released on May 15 for June and July dates—critical for Fall admissions—but they vanished immediately.
Checklist for Booking F-1 Slots
- Do not check the portal frequently: Repeated checking can trigger a 24- to 72-hour access limit block.
- Avoid switching between consulates: Switching between Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad consulates can lead to instant session restrictions.
- Prepare documents in advance: Have your DS-160 confirmation, I-20 form, and other required documents ready so you can book quickly when a slot appears.
What to Expect at the F-1 Visa Interview
Career coach Pritesh Jagani, in a recent social media video, explained how F-1 interviews have evolved in 2026. After speaking with visa officers, he noted that officers typically decide within the first five minutes of the conversation whether to grant a visa. There are no right or wrong answers, but officers aim to gauge the student's genuine interest in the course and institution, and to ensure the student is not merely attempting to enter the US under false pretenses or with someone else making decisions on their behalf.
Key Interview Tips
- Expect technical questions: Be prepared to answer questions about the course content, the application process, and the fees.
- Explain your rationale: A visa officer may ask why you chose a specific school or university to assess your involvement in the decision.
- Know your destination: Officers may check if you know which city your university is located in and which airport to use, to verify your engagement with the process.
Students are advised to remain calm, prepare thoroughly, and act swiftly when slots become available.
