US Set to Resume International Student Visa Processing

The US government may soon allow international students to apply for visas again, following a temporary pause that left many hopeful scholars in limbo. According to a statement from the US State Department, embassies and consulates are preparing to open new interview slots soon, offering fresh hope to students planning to start school in the US.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce explained that the pause was part of an administrative adjustment to help embassies prepare for new social media screening measures. She emphasized the delay would not be long-term.

“People should continue applying and keep an eye out for interview slots,” Bruce said. “This isn’t going to be a lengthy issue.”

Trump administration’s restrictions sparked confusion

Last month, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered embassies to pause new visa interviews for international students. He also announced plans to cancel visas for Chinese nationals with links to the Communist Party or those studying in sensitive fields.

At the same time, former President Donald Trump targeted Harvard University, temporarily blocking it from enrolling foreign students. He claimed the university had too many international students and accused it of harboring anti-Semitic sentiments. A court later overturned that move.

These back-and-forth changes disrupted plans for thousands of international students, many of whom were left uncertain about whether they could begin their academic programs this year.

Trump signals shift during China trade talks

During recent trade negotiations with China, Trump appeared to ease his stance. On Truth Social, he announced that Chinese students would still be allowed to attend US universities as part of the trade agreements.

“We will provide to China what was agreed to, including Chinese students using our colleges and universities,” he said.

Student concerns and economic impact

The restrictions have not only caused stress for international students but also raised concerns for US universities, which rely on foreign students’ tuition fees. In the 2023–2024 school year, the US hosted a record 1.1 million international students. Nearly a quarter of them came from China, with over 300,000 from India and around 90,000 from the Arab world.

Students say the experience of dealing with sudden policy changes has been frustrating and disheartening.

“Morale is down. We're scared, but also more united than ever,” said one Harvard student, who now fears leaving the country due to uncertainty about re-entry.

At George Washington University, student Dechen Parkel shared similar concerns.

“We live in a global world,” he said. “International students are what make college life rich and meaningful.”

What’s next?

While no official date has been announced, embassies are expected to resume visa interviews soon. Students are being encouraged to continue with their applications and monitor updates. If the pause is lifted, it could ease tensions on campuses and bring back a sense of normalcy for universities and their international communities.

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