The United States has temporarily suspended the scheduling of new student and exchange visitor visa interviews as part of expanded national security measures under the Trump administration.
The suspension, which affects applicants for F, M, and J visa categories, was ordered by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and will remain in effect until further notice. The move is aimed at tightening scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity, particularly for content deemed a national security risk.
Applicants with already scheduled interviews are not affected and may proceed as planned.
The new directive is part of broader reforms targeting what the administration says is a need for stricter vetting, with special attention to antisemitic or pro-Palestinian views. Critics argue the measures may infringe on free speech rights and unfairly target individuals based on political beliefs.
The suspension has sparked concern across US higher education institutions, many of which rely heavily on international students for enrolment diversity and financial sustainability. Universities warn the policy could deter prospective students and damage the country’s global academic reputation.
In a related development, Harvard University recently had its certification to enroll international students revoked over alleged noncompliance with federal policy—a move the university is challenging in court, citing threats to academic freedom and constitutional rights.
Institutions and students have been advised to monitor official government channels closely for updates on visa processing timelines and requirements.
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