Originally Posted by
SEA-Flyer
Buy a refundable fare now for visa issuance purposes, then after the visa is issued, refund it and get a normal round trip for your dates in a few weeks time once the desired dates are bookable.
No need to even tie up the money. Buy a ticket, print receive then call and have the ticket refunded (within the 24 hour rule) or
if you are dealing with a travel agent, they can do a dummy itinerary that will work for the visa. No consulate or school is going to check
to see if there is actually a real reservation.