U.S. Freezes New Visa Interviews for Foreign Students Amid Expanded Social Media Vetting

WASHINGTON — In a move that could disrupt the plans of thousands of international students, the U.S. State Department has temporarily stopped scheduling new visa interviews for those hoping to study in the United States, officials confirmed.

The pause, which does not affect students who already have interview appointments, comes as the department prepares to roll out stricter guidelines for screening applicants’ social media activity.

According to an internal cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and obtained by the Associated Press, consulates have been instructed to stop adding appointments for student and exchange visitor visas until new vetting guidance is issued.

“Effective immediately, in preparation for an expansion of required social media screening and vetting, consulate sections should not add any additional student or exchange visitor visa appointment capacity,” the memo reads.

A Crackdown With Ripple Effects

The change marks yet another move in a broader crackdown on international student programs that began under former President Donald Trump. While the Biden administration continued the policy of social media screening for visa applicants, this latest step could have more immediate consequences.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the U.S. will continue to use “every tool we can” to evaluate visa applicants, including students.

“We will continue to use every tool we can to assess who it is that’s coming here, whether they are students or otherwise,” Bruce said during a press briefing.

The decision, first reported by Politico, follows a series of high-profile efforts to restrict or revoke international student privileges.

Just last week, the administration revoked Harvard University’s authority to enroll international students under the student visa program—a decision that was challenged in court and temporarily blocked by a federal judge.

Earlier this year, thousands of international students already in the U.S. lost their legal status after a separate policy change. Although many successfully fought back in court and had their status restored, the administration quietly broadened the criteria for future terminations.

What This Means for Students and Schools

The suspension of new interview appointments could cause serious delays for students planning to start classes this summer or fall. With limited time before the next academic term, any prolonged pause could derail travel and enrollment timelines.

Universities, especially those already grappling with budget constraints, could also feel the impact. Many institutions rely heavily on international students—who often pay full tuition—to offset reductions in federal research funding and other revenue shortfalls.

If the freeze continues into peak visa season, colleges may face an unexpected enrollment crunch, and students may be left scrambling for alternatives.