Temporary Pause on New Student and Exchange Visitor Visa Appointments
May 28, 2025
Dear Students & Scholars,
We recognize that recent policy changes to student and exchange visitor visa appointments announced by the U.S. Department of State may be causing you understandable concern.
I am reaching out to share what information is available at this time and to reaffirm our strong support for you—our valued international community. We remain firmly committed to keeping you informed and supported as new updates emerge.
What’s happening?
The U.S. Department of State has temporarily paused the scheduling of new visa interviews for F and J visa applicants to allow for expanded social media screening and vetting procedures. Please know that there are indications that this pause is temporary.
Here’s what you need to know:
- New Appointments: U.S. embassies and consulates have been directed to remove any unfilled appointment slots for student and exchange visitor visas.
- Existing Appointments: If you already have a visa interview scheduled, it will still take place as planned. Be sure to check the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you are applying for updates.
- Potential Delays: Students and scholars seeking new visa appointments may experience some delays while this review is underway.
We understand that any changes to the visa process can cause concern. We’ll keep you informed as soon as new information becomes available.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Visa and Immigration Services. We’re here to support you.
Warm regards,
Meghan Gambino
Assistant Dean, Visa and Immigration Services
Stony Brook University