Effective May 27, 2025 : News media is reporting that the US Department of State (DOS) has ordered a "pause" on scheduling new visa interviews for those seeking a F-1 student visa as they determine processes to increase screening of social media for those requesting F-1 visas. Reports include that the directive from DOS states : "Effective immediately, in preparation for an expansion of required social media screening and vetting, consular sections should not add any additional student or exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa appointment capacity until further guidance is issued septel ("separate telegram"), which we anticipate in the coming days."

According to an unnamed U.S. official in news reports, “the suspension is intended to be temporary and does not apply to applicants who already had scheduled their visa interviews.” If you already have a scheduled visa interview, please attend it as planned and ensure you have all the necessary documents.

The International Student Services (ISS) team is following this situation closely for more detailed information as it becomes available.