June 19, 2025: This Week in International Student News
- International Student Voice Team
- Jun 19
- 5 min read
Hey there! If you've been following the news this week, you know it's been... a lot.
Visa interviews are back with new social media screening, travel bans are expanding, and universities are scrambling to support international students.
But we're not just panic-scrolling—we're breaking it all down with the facts you need, fresh scholarship opportunities, and practical guidance to navigate whatever comes next. Let's dive in.
International Student Voice Team ⭐
THIS WEEK FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 📰
U.S. Resumes Student Visa Processing with Mandatory Social Media ScreeningThe State Department announced Wednesday it's restarting student visa interviews after a month-long suspension, but with a major catch: all applicants must now unlock their social media accounts for government review. Consular officers will screen for posts deemed "hostile" to U.S. government, culture, or institutions. Students who refuse to make their accounts public may be rejected, and the department says this could indicate they're trying to hide online activity. Read more at PBS NewsHour
Enhanced Screening Prioritizes Universities with Lower International EnrollmentAs part of the resumed visa processing, consulates have been instructed to prioritize students applying to colleges where international students make up less than 15% of the student body. This policy affects nearly 200 U.S. universities where international students exceed this threshold, including all Ivy League schools and major public universities like the University of Illinois and Penn State. Source: PBS NewsHour
Trump Administration Eyes Travel Ban on Dozens More CountriesA sweeping expansion of travel restrictions is under consideration that could affect millions of people worldwide. The proposed ban would be the most comprehensive travel restriction in U.S. history, potentially impacting student visa applicants from numerous additional countries. The administration has given 36 countries 60 days to improve their vetting processes or face inclusion in the expanded travel ban. Details at NPR
Federal Judge Extends Protection for Harvard International StudentsA federal judge has extended a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration's ban on Harvard international students. The ruling provides continued protection for current students while legal challenges proceed. The administration had specifically targeted Harvard as part of broader pressure on universities with high international enrollment, demanding the school cap foreign students at 15% of total enrollment. Read more at ABC News
"The Trump Effect Could Be Worse Than COVID" for International EducationNew analysis suggests that current immigration policies could have a more devastating impact on international education than the COVID-19 pandemic. Enrollment projections show significant potential declines as policy uncertainty, visa processing delays, and enhanced screening requirements create barriers for prospective international students. The combination of factors is prompting many students to consider alternative destinations for their education. Read the full analysis at The PIE News
SPOTLIGHT: University of Arizona Launches London Study Abroad Option for International Students
While federal immigration policies create barriers for international students, some universities are getting creative with solutions. The University of Arizona announced this week that it's launching a first-semester study-abroad program in London specifically designed for international students worried about U.S. visa issues.
Why This Matters:
Students can start their U.S. degree without needing a visa or SEVIS record initially
Keeps students on track academically while avoiding immigration delays
Shows how universities are adapting to policy uncertainty
The Bigger Picture: UA Vice President Jenny Lee told the Arizona Board of Regents that "federal actions have, are and will negatively impact university engagement" across all institutions. The university is responding proactively rather than just waiting for policy changes.
By the Numbers:
UA's international community spans 64 countries across every continent
The university operates 15 micro-campuses in 12 countries
Non-resident student enrollment has grown significantly as state funding declined
What This Means for You:
Universities are recognizing the challenges international students face and developing innovative solutions. If you're concerned about visa processing or travel restrictions, look for schools offering similar flexible options like study-abroad pathways, micro-campuses, or hybrid programs that let you start your U.S. education journey from abroad.
This is exactly the kind of institutional support we love to see—universities stepping up to help international students navigate uncertain times.
Know of a university that's stepping up and showing support for international students? Reply to this email with a brief description - we'd love to feature them in our next newsletter!
FUNDING YOUR FUTURE: Scholarship Opportunities 💰
MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship
Open to international students enrolled at U.S. or Canadian universities that MPOWER supports. Awards range from $1,000-$8,000, with the deadline of July 31, 2025. This is perfect for students already in the system looking for additional funding.
Appily Easy Money Scholarship
A quick and easy application process for busy students. Award: $1,000. Deadline: June 30, 2025. Perfect for students who want a straightforward application without lengthy essays.
S&S Scholarship Fund for International Students (University of Michigan)
Specifically designed for international students at U of M, but similar programs exist at other universities. Applications open May 26 - June 23, 2025. This is a great reminder to check your own university's international student funding opportunities.
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
For U.S. students studying abroad, but many international students don't know about the reverse - some programs offer funding for international students in exchange programs. Next deadline: August 7, 2025. Worth exploring if you're considering study abroad opportunities.
McCall MacBain Scholarships
Applications open June through August/September 2025 for Summer/Fall 2026 admission. This is a prestigious scholarship program worth getting on your radar early.
Josh Gottheil Memorial Scholarship
Award: $2,000. Deadline: June 19, 2025 (coming up fast!). Named scholarships often have fewer applicants, so don't overlook these opportunities.
Bold.org International Student Scholarships
Multiple exclusive scholarships are available only through their platform, with various deadlines throughout the summer. These range from smaller awards to significant funding opportunities.
IMMIGRATION CORNER 🛂
Visa Interviews Are Back—How to Best Prepare
With the State Department resuming student visa interviews this week after a month-long suspension, thousands of students are scrambling to prepare for what could be the most important 10 minutes of their academic journey.
Here's a quick summary of what's changed:
Enhanced screening now includes a mandatory social media review
Longer wait times due to processing backlogs from the suspension
Heightened scrutiny around your online presence and political views
Priority given to students attending universities with <15% international enrollment
The Stakes Have Never Been Higher
One poorly answered question or concerning social media post could derail years of planning and thousands of dollars in application fees. With consular officers now specifically looking for signs of "hostility" toward U.S. culture or government, preparation isn't just recommended—it's essential.
Your Complete Interview Prep Guide: F-1 Students
We will continue to provide updates and resources for all students scheduling student visa interviews. In the meantime, we updated our article, particularly about F-1 visa interviews, from the most common questions to red-flag answers that trigger denials. Our comprehensive guide covers:
The 15 common interview questions
How to explain your study plans convincingly
How to prepare your social media accounts
Documentation strategies that work
Don't Leave Your Future to Chance
With interview slots filling up fast and the academic year approaching, now is the time to prepare thoroughly. Read our complete F-1 Visa Interview Guide and give yourself the best chance of success.
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