Thanh Niên – On October 14, 2017, New England Elite Education Consulting and Thanh Niên Newspaper co-organized a live-streamed program titled “U.S. Education Seminar and What You Need to Know About Student Visas.” The guests participating in the program included Mr. Tran Duc Canh, an American education expert; Mr. Greg Rankin, Head of the U.S. Student – Tourist – Business Visa Section; and Mr. Matthew E. Wall, Head of Information and Education at the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.

The guests participating in the program included Mr. Tran Duc Canh, an American education expert; Mr. Greg Rankin, Head of the U.S. Student – Tourist – Business Visa Section; and Mr. Matthew E. Wall, Head of Information and Education at the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.

Mr. Greg Rankin, Head of the Student – Tourist – Business Visa Section at the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, stated: “First, you must be a qualified student, prepare as best as you can to prove this. Next, always tell the truth. We look at many different aspects of an individual to understand the visa applicant…”

Experts answer questions during the online consultation of Thanh Niên Newspaper about U.S. education and student visas on October 14.

Mr. G. Rankin also advised that on the day of the interview, you must arrive on time. During the interview, they typically look at three aspects: Do you have enough money to study? Do you intend to complete the program? Will you return to your home country after completing your studies? You must adequately address these concerns.

If you do not “pass” the visa, you can return for an interview when you have new information to add to your previous story and demonstrate what has changed compared to the last time. Otherwise, it will be difficult to change the previous visa denial decision.

“There is no quota for issuing visas. The U.S. issues visas to all qualified individuals. Having relatives in the U.S. is normal, it neither helps nor harms the visa applicant. So, just tell the truth about this matter,” said Mr. G. Rankin.

Mr. Tran Duc Canh – American education expert answers parents’ questions about planning their children’s study abroad after the consultation session on October 14.

According to Mr. Tran Duc Canh, a member of the National Education Council and an American education expert, recent information about visas has been very mixed and contradictory. However, information from official sources is accurate, and parents need to research thoroughly. The important thing is that parents don’t need to worry; the integration of students in the U.S. is easier than parents in Vietnam fear. Parents should prepare several issues before considering studying abroad or applying for a visa: developing their children’s talents, interests, and natural passions, changing their mindset and approach towards their children, fostering independence and self-reliance… Parents should respect their children’s independence and reduce the tendency to impose or “own” their children if it exists.

Article by – Thien Sinh Gia

Photos by – Dao Ngoc Thach