J-1 Intern / Trainee interview questions from Kenya

Visa interviews for Kenya applicants are held at the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate in Kenya. Check the official U.S. visa appointment site for your post's current wait times. In peak seasons slots can be weeks out.

Host employer interview

1. Tell me about yourself and why you want this job.
2. Have you worked with customers before? Give me an example of a difficult one.
3. How would you handle a 10-hour shift on your feet in a busy season?
4. What would you do if you didn't understand an instruction from your supervisor?
5. Are you able to work weekends, holidays and early mornings?
6. Why should we choose you over other international applicants?
7. What do you know about where we are located?
8. Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.

Visa questions

1. What is the purpose of your trip?
2. Who is your sponsor, and who is your host employer?
3. What will you be doing, and where will you live?
4. How are you paying for the program?
5. What will you do when you return to Kenya?
6. Do you have family in the United States?
7. What are you studying, and when do you graduate?

How to answer well

• Answer briefly and honestly. Officers notice rehearsed speeches.
• Show clear ties to Kenya: studies to finish, a job, family, plans.
• Bring originals and copies of every document, in the order on your checklist.
• Know your employer, job title, location and dates without looking.

General guidance only. Always follow your sponsor's instructions and the official government site.