The US State Department confirmed a significant tightening of the student visa screening process, with a pronounced focus on applicants’ social media activity. This move stemmed from the Trump administration’s escalating concerns regarding national security and ideological vetting. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized the rigorous scrutiny applied to all visa applicants, regardless of their purpose of visit. Bruce’s comments followed reports indicating the Trump administration was considering more stringent background checks for student visa applicants, including proposals to analyze their social media profiles. A diplomatic cable further revealed that then-Secretary of State Marco Rubio had instructed US embassies and consulates to temporarily halt new interview appointments for student visa applicants until revised guidelines were issued. Defending these measures, Bruce asserted their necessity, even if they seemed burdensome, stating the administration’s goal was to ensure visitors understood US law, harbored no criminal intent, and would contribute positively to their experience in the country.

The State Department, citing security concerns, refrained from disclosing the specific tools or methods to be employed for the enhanced screening. Bruce underscored the importance of discretion in maintaining the effectiveness of these vetting procedures. Critics, however, voiced concerns that such policies could deter genuine students and reinforce a perception of the US as increasingly unwelcoming, particularly for applicants from certain countries. Despite these criticisms, the administration maintained that the stricter rules were indispensable for national security. This tightening of visa procedures for foreign students came after the State Department temporarily suspended scheduling new visa interviews while preparing to expand its social media screening protocols. An anonymous US official clarified that the suspension was intended to be temporary and did not affect applicants with pre-scheduled interviews. This development also followed the Trump administration’s earlier, though unsuccessful, attempt to revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students.