Washington D.C., May 28, 2025 – In a move that could impact thousands of international students, the Trump administration has temporarily paused new student visa interviews across US embassies and consulates worldwide. The decision comes as part of a broader effort to intensify vetting procedures, particularly focusing on applicants' social media activity.
According to a report by Aaj Tak, the US State Department has issued new instructions to American diplomatic missions, instructing them to delay scheduling new F-1 (student) visa interviews until further notice. This development could create significant hurdles for students planning to begin their studies in the United States for the Fall 2025 semester.
The policy shift is believed to be driven by the administration’s renewed focus on national security and immigration control. A senior official stated that the new vetting process aims to ensure that “individuals entering the United States under student visas do not pose any security or ideological threats.” A central component of this strategy is a detailed review of applicants' online presence and digital footprint.
Critics have expressed concern over the lack of clarity and the timing of the decision. International education experts warn that this move may further reduce the number of international students coming to the US—a trend already in decline due to visa delays, safety concerns, and perceived unwelcoming policies in recent years.
“This decision sends a chilling message to aspiring students worldwide and may prompt them to consider alternative destinations like Canada, Australia, or the UK,” said Dr. Anita Kapoor, an international education consultant.
Students who have already scheduled their interviews or received approvals are reportedly unaffected for now. However, uncertainty looms for thousands of new applicants awaiting their chance to study in the US.
The US remains one of the top destinations for higher education, with over a million international students contributing significantly to the economy and cultural diversity on campuses. Whether this pause is temporary or part of a longer-term policy overhaul remains to be seen.
Stakeholders across the education sector, including universities and student advocacy groups, have called on the administration to provide clearer guidance and ensure that national security priorities do not come at the cost of academic exchange and innovation.
