Thousands of International Students Face U.S. Visa Delays Ahead of Fall 2025 Semester
August 2025 – Tens of thousands of international students, particularly from India, are facing serious delays in obtaining U.S. student visas just weeks before the fall academic term begins. The disruption has been triggered by a temporary halt in visa processing, a new wave of denials, and heightened scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity.
Visa Appointments Halted, Backlogs Build
The U.S. Department of State paused new F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa appointments from May 27 to June 18, 2025, causing major backlogs at consulates worldwide. Although interviews resumed in mid-June, appointment slots remain limited, leaving many students unable to schedule interviews before their program start dates.
Indian Students Hit Hardest
Indian applicants, who make up one of the largest groups of international students in the U.S., have been particularly affected. F-1 visa issuance for Indian students dropped 41% in May 2025 compared to the previous year. Education consultants estimate that up to 70–80% of Indian students admitted to U.S. institutions may not arrive in time for the fall semester.
New Screening Requirements
Applicants must now ensure that their social media accounts are set to public as part of enhanced vetting procedures. The new rule, intended to detect content deemed “hostile” to U.S. values, has led to additional delays and an increase in visa refusals under Section 214(b).
Political Pressure and Government Response
A bipartisan group of 14 U.S. lawmakers, led by Rep. Deborah Ross, has urged the State Department to expedite visa processing and address the mounting delays. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has also raised the issue with the U.S. Embassy, requesting clarity and quicker processing to avoid disruption to students’ academic plans.
Economic Implications for U.S. Institutions
The delays could cost U.S. universities billions. A projected 30–40% decline in international student arrivals this fall could lead to $7 billion in lost tuition and fees, according to estimates from international education analysts. Public universities and research institutions are among those most at risk.
Concerns Over Visa Revocations
In addition to delays, the U.S. government has revoked thousands of student visas in recent months, often based on students’ online activity. Reports show that more than 2,000 visas have been rescinded since April, raising concerns among both students and civil rights groups.
