WASHINGTON – In a major blow to thousands of international students, the Trump administration has abruptly instructed U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to halt scheduling new visa appointments for student and exchange visitor categories.
This directive comes ahead of the State Department’s rollout of a broadened and controversial social media screening policy, causing concern across academic circles. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered diplomatic posts to pause new interview slots for F, M, and J visa applicants.
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While interviews already scheduled will proceed, no new slots are being made available. Consular offices have reportedly been instructed to remove all open appointments from public booking systems.
The unexpected order has shaken international student communities and universities, as it risks derailing the academic plans of those hoping to begin studies in the U.S. this fall.
The revised vetting policy will require deeper reviews of applicants’ social media activity, significantly increasing the workload for consular officers and raising concerns about delays and potential bias. Critics fear the policy could be used to reject applicants based on political views or affiliations.
Student groups and human rights advocates warn that those speaking out on political matters—particularly on issues like Gaza—may face targeted denials. Tensions have risen at Harvard University, where protests have erupted against the visa freeze and other recent government measures impacting the institution.
