A visa is a document which is authorized by a competent authority of the country to be visited, thus giving permission to a person who is not a citizen of that country to enter the territory. Each country has a different set of procedures for its visa process and different conditions attached. In some countries, the visa is issued on arrival whereas in some countries the visa must be applied for and received prior to arrival.
MBA abroad aspirants must apply for the visa immediately after receiving admission offers from the business schools abroad. International students can apply for the visa through the embassy/consulate of the host country present in their own country. Up-to date visa information and the procedures are provided by the university to the students. In some cases however visas are rejected and thus MBA abroad aspirants should be wary of certain facts applicable during the visa process and interview
Intent of residing in the host country after studies
Many MBA abroad aspirants plan to stay in the host country such as USA or Canada after completing their studies. While it is normal for an MBA graduate to work for a few years outside, you should not disclose any intention of staying back in the country on a permanent basis. Any intent of immigration will lead to visa rejection. Visa to USA can be granted if you succeed in demonstrating strong attachment to your own country and are able to show intention of coming back owing to family ties, work and business. Therefore, after completion of your MBA programme assurance of coming back to your own country is important.
Ensure you have sufficient funds
While your academic records and professional experience will help you secure the admission, financial resources are also an important factor to decide your fate. Visa process includes proof of adequate amount of finance which includes programme fee and the living expenses. In USA, the MBA programme are of two years and hence you must give enough evidence of financial resources supporting your study and living in USA in these two years. Finances can be shown through bank loans and any other liquid assets.
Incomplete documentation
Major reason for visa rejection is incomplete application and improper documentation. Once a student is offered an admission, the university provides the required set of information for the visa procedure. Moreover, the visa consulate also provides all required information. Applicants must thoroughly cross check and verify each information given. Each mandatory document required should be presented. Documents ranging from birth certificates, marksheets to the GMAT and TOEFL score cards should be carried alongwith you during the visa interview.
Criminal History
Any applicant with a history of criminal record or drug abuse has a strong chance of the visa getting rejected.
Improper conduct during Visa interview
A visa interview is not to be taken casually. Applicants must be well dressed and well informed. Candidates with poor academic grades and lack of knowledge may be rejected. Punctuality is very important during the visa interview. It is seen among many applicants that they get nervous or lose confidence which becomes a reason for visa rejection.
Lying to a visa officer is also taken seriously hence always provide honest facts. Fraudulent information may lead to permanent denial of visa. Intimidating during the Visa interview process or bullying may get your out of Visa fray. One should be well-mannered, confident and have a positive body language during the visa interview.
The visa is required for all full time MBA programmes across the world without which you will not be allowed to enter the country. Since visa process starts after admission offers, MBA abroad aspirants must apply to the business schools during the first round deadlines to have sufficient time for the visa process. Lastly, visa rejections are also caused due to such delays and applying to schools at the last minute.
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