The United States has resumed accepting student visa applications in the F, M, and J categories starting from June 18, 2025. This comes after a temporary pause that began in late May. All US embassies and consulates around the world have now reopened visa interviews. However, the application process has become more strict, especially regarding students’ social media presence.
One major change this year is that students must keep their social media profiles public before applying. Visa officers will carefully check applicants’ online activity, including posts, comments, and shared content. They will particularly look for anything seen as anti-American, content that supports terrorism or antisemitic views, and any kind of political activism that might continue after arriving in the US. If an applicant hides their social media or refuses access, the visa may be rejected, as it could be seen as an attempt to hide something suspicious.
The new screening process goes beyond just social media. Officials are also reviewing online articles, public records, and digital footprints. If they find anything questionable, they will save screenshots for detailed investigation. This rule applies to both students applying for the first time and those returning after a break.
US consulates have also been instructed to give preference to students joining universities with less than 15% international students. As a result, students who have secured seats in top-ranking or popular universities may face delays in getting their visa approved.
This new system has caused concern among many students. They are worried that even harmless jokes or personal opinions from the past might be misunderstood as being anti-US. Due to these concerns and limited visa slots, students are rushing to schedule interviews, hoping to complete formalities before their classes begin and also secure accommodation and travel bookings in time.
Students who are applying now should be careful and ensure their social media profiles are clean and open to public viewing. It is also wise to remove any posts that could be seen as controversial. Booking interviews as early as possible and keeping all university-related documents ready can help avoid last-minute stress. Although the process has become tougher, being transparent and well-prepared can improve the chances of visa approval. Students are advised to keep checking the official US embassy website for any latest updates or changes in the rules.
