On June 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump declared the suspension of student visas (F-1, M-1, and J-1) for new foreign students aiming to be admitted to Harvard University. It was done in response to national security concerns and allegations that Harvard had failed to comply with certain federal regulations. This action has unsettled many foreign students, especially Indians, about pursuing studies in the USA, particularly those planning to apply for a student visa for the USA from India.
Trump’s Latest Statement: What Did He Actually Say?
President Trump’s executive order suspends the admission of foreign nationals who want to study at Harvard University on F-1, M-1, and J-1 visas for six months, extendable. The administration complained of national security, crime, and Harvard’s failure to respond to federal guidelines, among them keeping and reporting students’ records. The executive order also instructs the Secretary of State to review the revocation of already issued visas for current Harvard students who meet specified conditions.
Protests & Responses in US Colleges
Harvard University has vehemently denounced the proclamation, arguing that it infringes on the institution’s First Amendment rights and constitutes an illegal retaliatory measure. The university has pledged to defend its international students and continue fighting for their rights. Other educational institutions and civil rights organisations have also voiced alarm regarding the implications of the proclamation for academic freedom and global collaboration.
Types of Student Visas for USA: F-1, M-1, J-1
If you’re going to study in the USA, you’ll have to apply for the proper student visa.
F-1 Visa USA (Academic Student Visa)
- For full-time academic studies (university, college, high school, or language schools).
- Requires SEVP-approved school.
- Limited on-campus work + OPT/CPT allowed.
- Most used by Indian students applying for an F1 student visa or F1 visa for the USA for full-time academic programmes.
M-1 Visa (Vocational Student Visa)
- For vocational or technical training (such as mechanical or design courses).
- Work that is not permitted while studying.
- Brief course length and more stringent regulations.
J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor Visa)
- For study abroad, internship, or training.
- Need to have a sponsor (school, business, or government).
- Limited work, usually with a 2-year return requirement.
Effect on F-1 Visa Interviews & Application Process (2025 Update)
While the June 4, 2025, suspension of student visas addresses only fresh entrants to Harvard University, the notice has raised broader anxiety among international students, particularly those from India, applying for a U.S. F-1 visa, which is a crucial part of the US student visa process.
Are F-1 Visa Interviews Halted?
After President Donald Trump’s announcement, the U.S. government has directed a number of embassies, including the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India, to stop scheduling new F-1, M-1, and J-1 student visa interviews temporarily.
There is no total suspension of all interviews. The reality is:
- Previously scheduled interviews before the announcement (on or prior to June 4, 2025) are being respected and processed as previously scheduled.
- Fresh interview time slots are put on hold, so no fresh appointments are being made for the time being.
- Students awaiting booking their student visa for USA from India can face delays to US visa scheduling India issues or uncertainty in their bookings.
What This Means for Indian Students
Numerous Indian students preparing for F-1 visa interviews over the next few weeks are left in uncertainty. With U.S. visa scheduling in India disrupted, students should not get panicked but take a strategic approach:
- Check the U.S. Visa Appointment Scheduling System regularly for updates.
- Contact your university’s international office or education counsellor for guidance. They can also assist you with understanding US F1 visa requirements and how to apply for a student visa effectively.
- Explore other dates, consulates, or study intakes (Spring 2026 instead of Fall 2025).
Will Other Universities Be Affected by This Announcement?
For now, the visa suspension specifically identifies Harvard University by name due to claimed non-compliance and national security concerns. However, there is increasing speculation that other top universities could face scrutiny if such problems are discovered.
As of Now:
- Accepted students to other universities besides Harvard may continue to process their visa applications if they already have interview schedules set.
- Other students without yet scheduled visa interviews must wait until new slots become available.
Social Media Vetting: A Hidden Yet Powerful Factor in F-1 Visa Approvals
When securing an F-1 student visa to the USA, students tend to concentrate on academic records, financial documents, and interview preparation. However, one that is becoming more significant and frequently neglected is your social media footprint.
What Is Social Media Vetting in Visa Applications?
Since 2019, the U.S. State Department has made most visa applicants (F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa applicants) submit usernames of their social media profiles (such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn) for the past 5 years. This regulation was increased under Trump and continues in 2025 with more sophisticated AI tools now reviewing public content.
Why Social Media Counts for Your U.S. Student Visa
During the US student visa process, particularly for the F1 student visa, immigration officials monitor your online behaviour to ascertain whether you are a legitimate student and not a security threat, and whether your online presence aligns with your visa application information.
Real News Example (2025 Update)
With the June 2025 visa restrictions against Harvard University and mounting national security fears, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has quietly stepped up its use of digital profiling technology. The technology now searches public postings with artificial intelligence to identify potentially dangerous applicants, including those who have never been arrested or flagged before.
A recent incident in April 2025 stated that some Indian and Iranian students received 221(g) administrative processing notices after visa officers discovered politically sensitive remarks in previous tweets even though the rest of their application was valid and complete.
Why Does Social Media Matter for Visa?
During your visa application, immigration authorities inspect your online presence to:
- Verify that you are an authorised student.
- Ensure you don’t pose a threat to security.
- Verify that your online information aligns with your visa application.
Your Visa Can Be Denied or Cancelled If:
- Your comments contain anti-U.S. government sentiments or political extremism.
- You insinuate intentions to overstay your visa or live illegally in the U.S.
- You engage in suspicious or criminal activity.
- You give inconsistent information compared to your DS-160 (false education/work/travel history).
- You post controversial content, memes, or jokes that can be misinterpreted.
How to Be Safe
- Avoid anti-U.S. political arguments or extremist views.
- Do not suggest that you’ll stay in the U.S. illegally.
- Don’t joke about crime or immigration.
- Make sure your profile details are correct and in line with your visa records.
What Should Students Do in This Situation?
Stay Informed
Check regularly official websites such as the U.S. Department of State and your university international office for updates.
Consult with Advisors
Consult with educational consultants or agents who specialise in immigration law. If you have any doubt, call our US visa consultant, eduprofound.
Explore Alternatives
Look for other institutions that are not subject to the proclamation or for possibilities for studies in other nations.
Prepare Well in Advance
Have all the documents ready and in order to prevent delays or rejections. Ensure that you meet all US student visa requirements and keep checking updates regarding US visa scheduling in India.
Avoid Fake News & Misinformation
With the changing scenario, misinformation travels quickly. Use credible sources like the official government websites and established news agencies. Be wary of unverified information floating on social media sites.
Need Expert Assistance? Speak to EduProfound – Your Go-To US Student Visa Consultant
It can all seem so overwhelming—especially with the new changes and confusion surrounding F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa interviews. That is where EduProfound is here to help.
EduProfound is a professional and proven student visa consultant that provides assistance to students from India in obtaining a student visa to the USA.
Why choose EduProfound?
- Professional advice on the F1 visa USA procedure, such as documentation, SEVIS fee, DS-160 form, and practice interviews.
- Support for US visa scheduling in India, including documentation guidance and interview support, even in difficult situations like appointment postponements.
- Shortlisting of universities and profile analysis for the best academic courses.
- Assistance in preparing questions for visa interviews, financial records, and US F1 visa requirements.
- Whether you are submitting an application for a fall 2025 intake or looking to prepare for 2026, EduProfound keeps you updated, ready, and confident at each step.
FAQs: Everything You Need To Know About US Latest News
Yes. Suspension is only for new admissions to Harvard University.
No. Interviews previously scheduled prior to June 4, 2025, are still being respected. New appointments are being held temporarily in abeyance.
Yes, American immigration authorities now check your social media posts.
Keep an eye on the official visa appointment system, speak with your university, and have fallback plans ready.
At EduProfound, we provide all visa consultancy services, such as profile assessment, document assistance, and interview preparation.
Conclusion
President Trump’s June 2025 Harvard-only visa suspension of applicants also shows the growing complexity of the USA student visa process. Although the order now applies to only a single college, it encourages all foreign students—particularly from India, to remain updated, prepare exhaustively, and be smart when it comes to their online lives. With assistance from professionals such as EduProfound, you are still able to pursue your dream of studying in the USA confidently.
