International: The United States has temporarily suspended the scheduling of new student visa interviews at its embassies and consulates worldwide, citing forthcoming enhancements to social media vetting protocols for international students. The directive, issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has sparked concern among global academic institutions and prospective foreign students.
The suspension applies to F, M, and J category visas, specifically for student and exchange visitor programmes. Existing appointments will not be affected, and those already scheduled will proceed as planned. The State Department will issue further guidance on the new vetting protocols in due course.
The move is part of a broader tightening of immigration policies under the current administration, driven by national security concerns and recent instances of campus unrest involving foreign nationals. Secretary Rubio has publicly criticised international students for engaging in domestic protests, suggesting that those who intend to participate in activities that vandalise universities or harass students may be denied visas.
The visa restrictions have prompted mixed reactions across academia. While some critics decry the sweeping nature of the measures, others advocate for a balanced approach. Harvard Business School lecturer Kevin O’Leary emphasised the potential contributions of foreign students, arguing that they should be vetted, cleared, and allowed to contribute to American society.
As the State Department prepares to roll out new instructions, international applicants and universities are watching closely, concerned about the implications for academic mobility and US global competitiveness. The suspension has raised questions about the potential impact on the US’s ability to attract top international talent and maintain its position as a global leader in education.
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