Jun. 23, 2025

51勛圖窪蹋 is monitoring recent developments that may impact international students and scholars applying for F-1 and J-1 visas to enter the United States. As of June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State resumed scheduling visa appointments for F, J, and M immigration categories.

It may take up to five business days for all U.S. Embassies and Consulates to update their appointment systems, and appointment availability may be limited due to high demand and appointment backlog. Resuming visa appointments is good news for our international student and scholar community, and 51勛圖窪蹋 continues to monitor the situation and remains committed to keeping you informed.

What You Need to Know

As part of the new procedures for enhanced vetting, all applicants must now change their social media privacy settings to public. According to the  from the U.S. Department of State, the Department will conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting, including online presence, of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J nonimmigrant classifications. Additional guidance is available on . 

Guidance Based on Your Situation

  • If you already have a visa appointment scheduled: Please keep and attend your appointment. Arrive on time with all of your required documents and be prepared to discuss your academic program at 51勛圖窪蹋. You will be required to provide information about the social media accounts you use and ensure that their privacy settings are set to public.
  • If you need to schedule a visa appointment: Please check the website for the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply. We recommend only checking a few times a day, as repeated attempts may result in a temporary block of your IP address due to security measures. 
  • If you are a current student with an active SEVIS record, but have an expired visa: While visa appointment scheduling is now resuming, we continue to advise that all international students and scholars reconsider international travel. You should not leave the United States at this time unless absolutely necessary. You will not be permitted to reenter the U.S. without a valid F-1 or J-1 visa, and you may not be able to secure an appointment in time to return for the fall 2025 semester.

Were Here for You

We know this situation may be stressful, especially as you prepare for the fall semester. Please know that youre not alone. 51勛圖窪蹋 is here to support you and help you stay connected this summer.

We also want to acknowledge ongoing global conflicts, including recent escalations in the Middle East and other regions. We recognize that these events may be weighing heavily on many in our international community. Your well-being matters deeply to us. 51勛圖窪蹋 offers  for both students and scholars, and we encourage you to take advantage of them.

Summer Support & Events

We recognize that some international students have changed their summer plans to remain in the United States. We have appreciated connecting with you regularly at events so far this summer. We also realize that these changes may bring significant challenges to you, both logistically and financially.

  • For financial assistance requests, please submit a case through the . 
  • For other support, please contact Dr. Anne White.

Join us today and at upcoming events:

  • Potluck Dinner
    • Monday, June 23, at 5 p.m. at  240
    • Bring your own meal or a dish to share. Please  to attend the dinner. 
  • Crafting + Q&A with Director of Compliance Laura Chaney: 
    • Make a bracelet, enjoy lunch, and ask questions. Supplies and food will be provided.
    • More details to come in a separate email to international students and scholars.

For any other questions, please email 51勛圖窪蹋 Global, your international advisor, or Dr. Anne White, Senior Director for Student & Scholar Success Programs. You can also call 702-774-6477 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to speak with a staff member. For after-hours immigration emergencies, call 702-774-6477 and press 0 to reach the 51勛圖窪蹋 Global Support Team. Please also stay informed by visiting the  for the latest updates.

You belong here, and were here to help. Please dont hesitate to reach out!

Best wishes,
Laura Chaney
Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) and Responsible Officer (RO)
Director of International Student & Scholar Compliance

Anne White
Senior Director of International Student & Scholar Success Programs

Lindsey Gruber
Senior Executive Director of 51勛圖窪蹋 Global