On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, a U.S. official shared details of an internal Department of State cable, with various news outlets, which indicated that the Department of State will pause scheduling F-1 and J-1 visa interviews. The cable reportedly said, “Effective immediately, in preparation for an expansion of required social media screening and vetting, consular sections should not add any additional student or exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa appointment capacity” and indicated that the pause would remain in effect at least until further guidance is issued in the coming days. This interview scheduling suspension is not anticipated to impact individuals who have already scheduled their visa interviews, only those who are currently attempting to schedule F, M, or J visa interviews. Our office will continue to monitor closely for related developments, including for clarifications from the Department of State regarding the proposed expansion of required social media screening and vetting in connection with the visa interview process.