A memo from Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that this pause will remain until further notice, BBC reported. The memo emphasized that increased vetting will have significant effects on diplomatic operations.
This decision comes amid Trump’s criticism of elite universities, which he claims are too liberal and foster antisemitism. Although new appointments are on hold, those already scheduled can proceed. The State Department is planning to expand social media screening for all student visa applications, though details about this vetting process are not specified.
Foreign students typically need interviews at U.S. embassies to secure their visas, and many universities depend on these students for funding due to their higher tuition fees. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce reinforced the importance of thorough vetting for entrants into the U.S.
The administration has previously frozen substantial funding for universities and attempted deportations, actions that have faced legal challenges. Criticism of universities has included accusations of permitting antisemitism under the guise of free speech.
Harvard University has been particularly targeted, with recent attempts to revoke its ability to enroll international students, though a federal judge has blocked this move. If implemented, such measures could severely impact Harvard, where over a quarter of students are international.
