US Resumes Student Visa Processing for Fall 2025: Key Updates and Guidance

The latest updates on US student visa processing for Fall 2025 indicate a positive development after a temporary suspension earlier in the year. Key points relevant to students are:

Visa Appointments Resumed

• Visa Appointments Resume: On June 18, 2025, the US Department of State instructed embassies and consulates worldwide to resume scheduling interviews for F, M, and J visas, which are the categories for student visas. This reverses a suspension that began in late May 2025, ensuring that students can proceed with their visa applications and aim for timely arrival for Fall 2025 enrollment.
• Expanded Social Media Screening: Along with resuming visa appointments, the US government implemented enhanced social media screening. Applicants must keep their social media accounts public for the visa process, avoid posting political or sensitive content, and not delete any accounts during the process. These measures are part of increased vetting aimed at national security.
• Admissions and Eligibility: To qualify for an F-1 visa, students must be admitted to a SEVP-approved US school, demonstrate English proficiency, provide proof of financial ability to fund their studies, and confirm intent to return home after graduation. Once on an F-1 visa, students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week during semesters and are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), with STEM graduates eligible for an additional 24-month extension after graduation.
• Impact of Visa Delays: The suspension period created uncertainties for thousands of international students; some US institutions planned deferrals, remote classes, or extra support. With visa interviews now resumed, students are advised to promptly prepare and schedule appointments to avoid further delays.
• Government Job Results or Admission Updates: The available information focuses primarily on student visa processing and university admissions. There are no specific recent updates on government job results or admissions related to this visa category as of July 2025 in the provided sources.

Important Resources

• US Embassy & Consulates - Visa Information

Conclusion

Students aiming to start studies in the US in Fall 2025 should be aware of the resumed visa interview availability, comply with the new social media screening rules, ensure all admissions and documentation prerequisites are met, and proactively schedule their visa appointments due to potentially high demand.