US Pauses Student Visa Appointments, Plans More Social Media Checks
The United States has paused student visa appointments in several countries and plans to ramp up reviews of applicants’ social media. This move has raised worries for international students and schools, as it may affect thousands hoping to study in the US this year. Officials say the changes are meant to strengthen national security, but many see the impact reaching far beyond that.
What’s Happening
The US State Department said student visa interviews are on hold due to policy reviews and tighter screening. This affects embassies and consulates across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, which have stopped scheduling new interviews for F, J, and M visa applicants.
At the same time, the government plans to look more closely at social media activity. Students might now need to share their usernames or account histories from platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), covering the past five years.
Impact on International Students
This pause is making students and universities uneasy. Many students from South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa see the US as a top pick for higher learning. Any delay or refusal could throw off class schedules, research, and scholarships.
A drop in international student numbers could also hit US colleges hard. These schools often depend on tuition from students coming from abroad.
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Response from Students and Schools
Student groups and advocacy organizations have pushed back, calling the new checks unfair and too invasive. Colleges and universities want the government to explain the changes and speed up the process so students don’t miss out on their education.
On the other hand, officials say these steps are needed to protect the country and make sure only safe applicants get visas.
Looking Ahead
Pausing student visa appointments and adding social media checks shows a shift toward stricter immigration rules. While keeping the country safe matters, leaders will need to find the right balance to keep US schools open and welcoming. The next few weeks will show how these changes affect students and colleges across the country.
