On May 27, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a directive instructing U.S. consular posts worldwide to cease scheduling appointments for F, M, and J visa categories, ostensibly to implement new social media vetting protocols (adding yet another good reason to delete your Twitter (X) and Facebook accounts).  

This unprecedented move affects an ecosystem that generated $43.8 billion through tuition, housing, and living expenses in the 2023-2024 academic year alone. The decision comes amid an escalating confrontation between the administration and elite universities, with Harvard University bearing the brunt of federal retaliation.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has terminated Harvard's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification, effectively barring the institution from enrolling foreign students for the 2025-2026 academic year. Yes, the same Kristi Noem that shot her dog in the head when it would not obey her commands. https://www.humaneworld.org/en/blog/kristi-noem-puppy-killing-scandal