US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has signed a directive temporarily suspending the appointment of interviews for student visas of categories F, M and J at all American embassies and consulates around the world. The decision was made in preparation for the expansion of the social network verification system for applicants to study at American universities.
The scale of the solution
The suspension affects the process during the peak application season and may seriously complicate the admission of foreign applicants to American universities in the fall of 2025. According to the Open Doors 2024 report, a record 1.13 million international students are studying in the United States. This is a 7% increase compared to the previous year.
The consequences for universities can be disastrous. In the 2023-2024 academic year, international students brought in $43.8 billion to the American economy and supported more than 378,000 jobs. Every 3 international students create one workplace in the USA.
The restrictions are a continuation of a series of measures against international students that began in March 2025. The NAFSA Association reported more than 800 visa cancellations and termination of entries in the SEVIS system from March to April.
Alternative: Canada and the UK accept students
Against the background of American restrictions, other English-speaking countries retain admission opportunities, albeit with certain difficulties:
- Canada has imposed restrictions for 2024-2025, setting a limit of 606,250 applications for student permits (a decrease of 35% from the level of 2023). However, applications are still being accepted. Especially for master’s and doctoral programs that do not fall under quotas.
- The UK has recorded a decrease in the issuance of student visas. However, visa application centers continue to operate normally.
Unlike the United States, where the process is completely frozen, Canada and the United Kingdom continue to consider applications. Given the time frame for reviewing applications, it is necessary to submit admission documents in the first half of June, and visa documents by the end of June 2025, so that the migration services have time to review the application.
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The situation with American student visas requires quick decision-making and the search for alternative ways to receive quality education abroad. Our team provides professional advice on student visas and admission to foreign universities. Leave a request for a consultation. We will help you choose the optimal strategy in the current conditions.
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