F-1 Visa Applicant Receives 221(g) White Slip at Hyderabad Consulate, Sparks Reddit Discussion on Approval Odds

A recent Reddit post by a prospective international student has sparked widespread discussion after the applicant shared their tense F-1 visa interview experience at the U.S. Consulate in Hyderabad. The student, who plans to pursue a Master’s in Information Systems (MSIS) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, was issued a white 221(g) slip—a request for additional processing often seen as a temporary delay, not a rejection.

According to the student, the interview began with the visa officer asking about other universities they had applied to. When the applicant mentioned UC Irvine, the officer abruptly asked why they chose UW–Madison over UC Irvine. The student responded by citing UW–Madison’s strong research in the automotive sector, which aligns with their previous work experience and career goals. However, the officer appeared irritated and cut the explanation short.

“She asked me to place my left four fingers for scanning and handed me a white 221(g) slip,” the applicant wrote. “She told me to keep my social media profiles public and said I’d receive an email in five days.”

The student expressed their anxiety in the post, saying, “I was really nervous… this is one of the best opportunities I’ve ever had. The idea that I might be rejected just because I got nervous is hard to accept.”

The post drew an outpouring of support from the Reddit community. One user reassured, “He gave 221(g) just to check your socials. If he wanted to reject, he would’ve given 214(b). Most likely, you’ll be approved. Good luck!”

Another added, “As long as there’s nothing questionable on your social media, you’ll be fine. 100%.”

Many users shared similar experiences with 221(g) slips, emphasizing that it's often part of standard administrative processing. One commenter noted, “I got a 221(g) for my F-1 too. They cleared it in 7 days after reviewing my LinkedIn and Instagram. Just stay calm.”

For now, the applicant—and many others watching—await the outcome, hoping this delay ends in a visa approval.

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