US Student Visa Freeze: Trump’s Administration Expands Social Media Vetting, Sparks Global Outcry

The Trump administration has temporarily halted student visa interviews worldwide, citing plans to expand social media vetting for international students. This move has sparked widespread criticism, with many universities and experts warning of long-term damage to academic freedom and the US economy.

The Visa Freeze

In a memo obtained by CBS News, Secretary of State Marco Rubio directed US embassies to stop scheduling new student visa interviews “until further guidance is issued”. Existing appointments will proceed as scheduled, but new interview slots will not be added. The pause applies to F, M, and J visas, affecting thousands of international students hoping to study in the US.

Stricter Social Media Screening

The administration plans to enhance social media vetting for student visa applicants, although the specifics of what this entails remain unclear. Critics argue that this policy could unfairly target students who express dissenting opinions online. In March, the Guardian reported that the Trump administration had already increased vetting of student social media, linking it to a broader crackdown on pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campuses.

Impact on Universities

Many US universities rely heavily on international students, who often pay higher tuition fees. The visa freeze and stricter vetting could have significant financial implications for these institutions. Harvard University, in particular, has been targeted by the Trump administration, with $2.65 billion in federal grants frozen and other funding worth $100 million under review.

Global Reaction

China has urged the US to protect international students’ rights, with hundreds of thousands of Chinese students attending US universities. Academic leaders are also speaking out, emphasizing the economic contributions of foreign students. Harvard Business School lecturer Kevin O’Leary noted that these students “are extraordinary individuals… You graduate Harvard, you’re an engineer or whatever, you stay here and you start a business here and you’ll create jobs here”.

Concerns Over Free Speech

Critics argue that the new policy on social media vetting infringes on First Amendment rights. The Trump administration has accused some universities of allowing pro-Palestinian activism to be hijacked by antisemitism, while universities claim the administration is trying to stifle free speech.

What’s Next?

The future of international students in the US remains uncertain, with many questioning whether the country remains a top destination for higher education. As the situation unfolds, students and universities alike are holding their breath, waiting for further guidance on the visa freeze and social media vetting.

Source: Africa Publicity