time-line,as a reference

Jan. 2003 submitted all materials required to Buffalo;
Feb. 2003 received the first letter;
Jan. 2004 received the second letter and interview was waived;
Aug. 2004 received the third letter and submitted passport and photo.

It took more than 4 months for processing Fingerprint.

Experience:
1.Good English is essential, not only for study but also for survival;
2.Read carefully every word in the official documents.
3.Good patience.