1. Yes. You need to show funds that are immediately accessible. It qualifies as long as the investment certificate can be converted to cash at a moment’s notice.
2. No, standardized tests don’t matter as long the university you plan to attend waives them.
3. It depends on the context. Generally speaking, your interview should be focused on the program you plan to attend. If you bring up admissions outside of the US, it may be perceived as you’re not entirely sold on the University you plan to attend in the US. That could work against you.

Many students need help to come up with their approach to the F1 Visa Interview, which is why we offer F1 Visa Consultation and Mock F1 Visa Interview services. You may want to consider them—more info at https://greencardez.com/services