The U.S. has halted F, M, and J visa interviews for foreign students. New appointments are not being scheduled due to social media screening, dealing a blow to the aspirations of many Indian students.
America: If you are planning to study in the USA, this news is crucial. The administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump has implemented a significant policy change that could make studying in America considerably more difficult.
What is the new order?
The U.S. State Department has instructed all consulates to immediately halt the scheduling of new interview appointments for Student (F), Vocational (M), and Exchange Visitor (J) visas. This means no new student interviews will be scheduled until further notice.
This order emerged through documents signed by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, as highlighted by the American media website Politico.
Why was this decision taken?
This step has been taken to strengthen social media screening for students entering the U.S. Recently, several foreign students participated in protests on the Israel-Gaza issue at American universities. This has led the U.S. government to adopt a more cautious approach.
The document states that "no new Student or Exchange Visa interview appointments will be scheduled until new Social Media checking guidelines are issued."
What is Social Media Screening?
Social Media Screening means that every student intending to go to the U.S. will now have their social media accounts checked – their Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (now X), and LinkedIn profiles, posts, comments, followers, and likes/shares will all be scrutinized.
What did U.S. officials say?
U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated, "Scrutiny of everyone entering the U.S. is essential. Whether you are a student, tourist, or on a work visa – everyone will undergo thorough vetting. This process should not be considered controversial, as its purpose is to protect U.S. security and societal interests."
Impact on Students and Universities
According to data from the Institute of International Education, over 1.1 million international students were studying in the U.S. during the 2023-24 academic year. A NAFSA report indicates these students contribute $43.8 billion to the U.S. economy and create 378,000 jobs.
If this halt persists, it will significantly impact the financial condition of U.S. universities. Students will face admission difficulties, and the global image of the U.S. education system could be tarnished.
Harvard University also under scrutiny
The Trump administration recently targeted Harvard University, alleging that it gives undue preference to foreign students and promotes anti-Semitism.
Although a federal court placed a temporary injunction on this decision, Trump requested a list of all foreign students from Harvard, claiming they are solely benefiting and not contributing significantly to the U.S. education system.
Increased difficulties for Indian students
Thousands of students from India go to U.S. universities each year. However, this process will now become significantly more complex. Social media screening will cause delays in visa interviews, leading to admission challenges.
Students from countries like India, China, Korea, Brazil, and Nigeria constitute a large portion of the student body at American universities. If this situation continues, it could threaten America's global educational leadership.
