The Trump administration has enacted an immediate halt on scheduling student visa appointments, as outlined in a memo from Secretary of State Marco Rubio to US embassies. This decision is part of preparations to intensify social media vetting for student and foreign exchange visa applicants, a move expected to have profound effects on diplomatic operations abroad.
The memo, which was also shared with diplomatic posts, indicated that the suspension of appointment scheduling would remain in effect "until further guidance is issued." However, those who already have visa appointments will still be able to proceed as planned.
The change comes amidst President Trump's ongoing dispute with several prestigious universities, which he claims promote far-left ideologies and contribute to antisemitism on their campuses through discriminatory admissions.
Typically, foreign students are required to schedule interviews at US embassies in their home countries before qualifying for study visas. Many colleges depend on international students for tuition revenue, as they are often charged higher fees.
Responding to inquiries about the changes to student visa policies, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce underscored the importance of stringent vetting procedures for individuals entering the country, affirming the administration's commitment to this process.
The Trump administration has also previously imposed freezes on significant university funding and moved to deport numerous students, revoking their visas. Many of these actions face judicial challenges.
The White House has targeted certain universities, such as Harvard, accusing them of facilitating pro-Palestinian demonstrations that the administration claims have veered into antisemitism. In return, colleges have raised concerns that this could infringe upon free speech rights.
Last week, the Trump administration revoked Harvard’s ability to enroll international students or host foreign researchers, although a federal judge has temporarily blocked this policy. Given that over 25% of Harvard’s student body comprises international students, the proposed restrictions could have catastrophic implications for the institution.
The memo, which was also shared with diplomatic posts, indicated that the suspension of appointment scheduling would remain in effect "until further guidance is issued." However, those who already have visa appointments will still be able to proceed as planned.
The change comes amidst President Trump's ongoing dispute with several prestigious universities, which he claims promote far-left ideologies and contribute to antisemitism on their campuses through discriminatory admissions.
Typically, foreign students are required to schedule interviews at US embassies in their home countries before qualifying for study visas. Many colleges depend on international students for tuition revenue, as they are often charged higher fees.
Responding to inquiries about the changes to student visa policies, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce underscored the importance of stringent vetting procedures for individuals entering the country, affirming the administration's commitment to this process.
The Trump administration has also previously imposed freezes on significant university funding and moved to deport numerous students, revoking their visas. Many of these actions face judicial challenges.
The White House has targeted certain universities, such as Harvard, accusing them of facilitating pro-Palestinian demonstrations that the administration claims have veered into antisemitism. In return, colleges have raised concerns that this could infringe upon free speech rights.
Last week, the Trump administration revoked Harvard’s ability to enroll international students or host foreign researchers, although a federal judge has temporarily blocked this policy. Given that over 25% of Harvard’s student body comprises international students, the proposed restrictions could have catastrophic implications for the institution.
