The US government has announced a halt to new student visa interviews at embassies worldwide, as the State Department prepares to implement stricter social media screening protocols for international students. This decision impacts all foreign student visa applicants, with significant implications for universities, especially in Massachusetts, where incoming international students might face delays in their applications. Government officials, including those from the Trump administration, have indicated that they are taking this step to enhance security and scrutiny of foreign students. As part of this crackdown, all student visa applicants will undergo more rigorous social media checks, raising concerns among students, particularly from countries like China and South Korea, about their online presence. The pause in processing could affect educational plans globally, as the US aims to ensure thorough review of visa applications through expanded vetting processes.