INTO University Partnerships is proactively assisting international students in navigating the complexities of the US visa process through its Pre-Arrival Success Services (PASS) strategy, focusing on regions where visa attainment is particularly challenging.
The PASS strategy, conceived by INTO University Partnerships, is dedicated to offering detailed visa support and advice to international students aiming for US higher education. This no-cost service has significantly benefited over 2000 students from various countries such as India, Vietnam, Pakistan, Turkey, Kenya, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Kazakhstan, aiding them in obtaining their F-1 visas.
Unlike traditional visa guidance services, INTO’s PASS strategy incorporates an immersive, hands-on approach, including simulated interview experiences conducted by seasoned advisors. It features customised mock interview sessions, interactive workshops, and thorough webinars that encompass the entire visa application process.
Jacquie Serr, Vice President of Enrolment at INTO University Partnerships, highlighted the importance of bespoke support: “When it comes to a students’ enrolment journey, it is vital that we meet them where they are, offering support and services in areas of high stress. The US visa process and how decisions are made on an F-1 visa can be confusing for students and their families to navigate. What makes PASS different is that we take the time to work individually with students – each student, their goals and background are unique, and so is each 1:1 session our advisors have with students. Human interaction is important here, not just for visa success but for student success.”
Laura Nye, Manager of the PASS Strategy, underscored the initiative’s core aim: “The US international student visa application and interview is a complicated and challenging process for many students. Our primary goal with the PASS program is to build students’ confidence throughout the visa process as they prepare to embark on their academic journey in the US.”
Since its launch in 2020, the PASS strategy has rapidly expanded to offer essential support, significantly enhancing visa approval chances for participants.
The strategy’s webinars comprehensively cover topics from the F1 visa application process to document assessments, culminating in a Q&A session for student engagement.
Laura Nye further elaborated on the strategy’s breadth: “Our program is designed to cover every aspect of the US visa process for students. We provide students with comprehensive information and the opportunity to address any concerns or questions they may have. We also facilitate connections with student experience teams at our partner universities and provide insights into campus resources. This ensures a smooth transition into university life, where students can leverage the available support.”
The PASS strategy includes personalised mock interview sessions with INTO’s US visa specialists, ensuring students are well-prepared for their interviews by building confidence and articulating their academic goals effectively.
Students like Emmanuel, Muhammed, and Pablo have praised the strategy for significantly improving their preparedness and confidence, contributing to successful visa interviews.
The positive impact of the PASS strategy is also acknowledged by INTO’s partner institutions in the US, which have seen enhanced campus diversity with the inclusion of skilled international students.
Representatives from The University of Alabama and INTO Hofstra University, Vince Milam and Oscar Del Rio respectively, have lauded the PASS strategy for its vital role in preparing students for successful visa interviews.
Since its establishment, INTO University Partnerships has played a crucial role in bridging over 150,000 students from 180 countries with top-tier universities in the US, UK, and Australia, helping them to achieve their educational aspirations.
