The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered a temporary halt to student visa interviews and has begun screening the social media accounts of international applicants, including those from Kosovo who wish to study in the United States.
In a cable dated May 27, 2025, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. embassies and consulates have been instructed not to schedule any new interviews for student visa applicants (F, M, and J categories) until further notice.
This decision is part of a broader effort to increase scrutiny of international students, particularly regarding their activities on social media.
The administration cited the need to prevent the entry of individuals who could pose a threat to national security or who may be involved in antisemitic activities. However, the lack of clarity on the screening criteria has raised concerns within the academic community.
Some State Department officials have expressed worries that previous guidance was vague, raising questions about what kind of online activity could lead to a visa denial.
This development has caused alarm in the academic sector, as many U.S. universities rely on international students for substantial revenue.
The suspension of student visa interviews may negatively impact enrollments for the upcoming semester and lead to financial consequences for higher education institutions.
