Trump Administration Indefinitely Suspends Student Visa Appointments in the U.S.

Trump Administration Indefinitely Suspends Student Visa Appointments in the U.S.

The administration of President Donald Trump has instructed U.S. embassies to halt scheduling student visa appointments or interviews indefinitely.

The decision reportedly stems from plans to intensify social media vetting of student visa applicants. In a letter sent to embassies, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the suspension will remain in effect “until further notice.”

The message emphasized that social media scrutiny would be increased for both student visas and exchange program-related visas, which will have a “significant impact” on embassy and consulate operations.

This move comes at a time when President Trump is in conflict with several top American educational institutions, which he views as overly left-leaning. In a directive issued Tuesday, the State Department instructed U.S. embassies to remove from their calendars all student visa applicants who have not yet received interview appointments. However, those who already have scheduled appointments will still be able to attend their interviews.

The diplomatic cable further stated that the State Department is preparing to expand the scope of mandatory social media checks and screenings for all student visa applicants.

Foreign students who wish to study in the United States are typically required to book an appointment at a U.S. embassy in their home country to secure visa approval.

Many U.S. institutions rely heavily on international students for funding, as these students often pay higher tuition fees than domestic students.

When asked about student visas, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters on Tuesday, “We take very seriously the process of knowing who is coming into the country, and we will continue to do so.”

The Trump administration has already frozen millions of dollars in funding to universities and has taken steps to expel many students and revoke thousands of visas—though many of these measures have been blocked or delayed by court orders.

The White House has also accused several universities of fostering antisemitism by allowing pro-Palestinian activism on campus.

Colleges, in turn, have accused the Trump administration of attempting to violate free speech rights. One major flashpoint has been Harvard University, which recently came under direct attack from the Trump administration.

Last week, the administration revoked Harvard's authority to admit foreign students and invite international researchers. However, a federal judge has since temporarily blocked that move.

If Trump's action is ultimately enforced, it could significantly damage Harvard, where more than one-quarter of students are international.