Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:14am on 28 May 2025,Wednesday International
The Trump administration has directed US embassies to halt new student visa appointments as it prepares stricter social media vetting for international students. A State Department memo from Secretary Marco Rubio instructed diplomatic posts to cancel unscheduled appointments, though existing ones may continue. The policy shift follows President Trump’s clash with top universities like Harvard, which he accuses of fostering antisemitism and left-wing bias. Universities rely heavily on international students, who pay higher tuition. Critics warn the move undermines academic freedom and infringes on free speech. The expanded vetting could significantly impact the ability of foreign students to study in the US. (PC: BBC)
