Visa Interviews Resume for Indian Students as US Lifts Temporary Pause Ahead of Fall Admissions

Visa Interviews for Indian students planning to study in the United States have officially resumed, bringing relief to thousands who were uncertain about their academic future. The US State Department recently lifted a three-week “global pause” on new visa appointments for international students, allowing fresh applications for F-1, M-1 and J-1 visas to proceed.

The decision is especially significant for students preparing for fall 2025 admissions, a peak period for international enrolment in American universities. The temporary suspension, initially implemented in late May 2025, had caused anxiety among students and education consultants across India.


Social Media Screening Now Mandatory

While visa interviews are back on track, the US government has introduced a new requirement: student applicants must make their social media profiles public. This move is intended to allow US authorities to screen applicants for any content that could be interpreted as anti-American or in conflict with US interests.

According to the updated policy, students found violating the Department’s social media guidelines could face rejections. This added layer of scrutiny reflects heightened security measures, even as the US reopens its doors to international students.


India Emerges as Top Contributor to US Campuses

The decision to resume visa interviews comes as India becomes the leading source of international students in the United States. In FY24, India sent 331,602 students to American institutions, marking a 23 percent increase from the previous year and surpassing China.

The surge, noted in the Open Doors Report, underscores India’s growing presence in global higher education and the increasing interest among Indian youth in pursuing degrees abroad.


A Timely Move for Fall 2025 Admissions

The May to August window is typically the busiest season for student visa processing, with nearly 70 percent of all international student visas issued during this time. The recent pause had placed many students in limbo—especially those who had already secured admission but had no clarity on travel timelines.

Karunn Kandoi, founder and CEO of Vidysea Education, called the resumption a “controlled reopening.” He said, “This decision strikes a balance between national security and educational diplomacy. It’s a positive signal for Indian students and their families.”

Mamta Jani, founder of Ontrack Education, echoed the sentiment. “Students now have a clear path forward. Many had already received offers and were only waiting for visa interviews to resume. Now, they can plan travel, arrange accommodation and prepare for academic life in the US without delay,” she said.


Understanding the Visa Types

  • F-1 visas are issued to students pursuing academic studies at accredited US institutions.
  • M-1 visas are for those enrolled in vocational or non-academic programmes.
  • J-1 visas are intended for students participating in cultural and educational exchange programmes.

All three categories were impacted by the May 27 order from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which halted processing to strengthen security screening procedures.


A Positive Step with Added Caution

While the resumption of visa interviews is a relief, the conditions attached to it signal the US government’s focus on tighter security and increased oversight. Still, study-abroad experts believe the policy will help restore confidence among students, especially those eager to start their journeys this fall.

As appointments open again and embassies begin processing backlogs, students are advised to update their documents, review new guidelines carefully and be transparent during the application process. The controlled reopening may be cautious, but it paves the way for academic dreams to take flight once again.

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