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 transferring your active SEVIS record to 51勛圖窪蹋, 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.

Support & Arrival Resources

51勛圖窪蹋 is here to help you prepare for your arrival and get connected before the semester begins. We know this may be a stressful time, and we want you to feel supported and welcome.

  • For questions about your I-20 or visa appointment, contact Rene Castaneda.
  • For peer connection and arrival support, such as receiving your free Uber voucher for the airport, contact Dr. Anne White.

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