F-1 Visa Rejected Despite $61,932 Scholarship and Strong Finances

A Bangladeshi student with a generous $61,932 scholarship from the University of Redlands in California has been denied a U.S. F-1 student visa, raising questions about the fairness of some visa interviews. The rejection came after a very short visa interview on July 15, 2025, at the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, where only two questions were reportedly asked.

Strong Scholarship, Strong Finances — Still Rejected
The student had been offered a 99% tuition scholarship by the University of Redlands, leaving only $750 in annual tuition fees. To cover this and other living expenses, his family had prepared $75,000 in savings, and his father earns $50,000 annually. The student also presented academic credentials and a clear financial plan.

However, despite having all the proper documents—including the I-20 form—the visa officer reportedly did not review any of them and moved quickly through the interview.

Only Two Questions Before the Visa Was Denied
The student shared that the visa officer asked two questions:

• How will you fund your education?

He answered that his parents are fully sponsoring him and that he received a 99% scholarship. He also explained that his father has been an assistant professor at a government college for 28 years and runs a coaching center.

• What are your plans after graduation?

The student said he plans to return to Bangladesh to start a data analytics company that would help solve local problems related to traffic, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.

Moments later, the officer handed him a 214(b) refusal notice, ending the interview.

A Confusing Decision for a Qualified Student
The decision shocked and confused the student, especially since his I-20 form and financial documents were never examined. Many in the student community are questioning how such a well-prepared applicant could be denied a visa without proper review.

The case has sparked debate around the subjective nature of some U.S. visa interviews, where decisions can be made quickly—even when candidates appear to meet all the requirements.

What’s Next? Reapplying and Moving Forward
With university orientation just 40 days away, the student is now planning to reapply for the F-1 visa within the next 20–25 days. He is also seeking guidance on how to properly address the previous visa denial on his DS-160 application form.

He is considering explaining that nervousness affected his ability to clearly present his qualifications and financial situation during the first interview. With stronger preparation and a more confident approach, he hopes to improve his chances during the second attempt.

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