J1 Weekly Brief: June 17–23, 2025
This week brought some important developments for the J1 community, from the resumption of visa appointments to new screening procedures. We also saw continued discussions around international student interest and local exchange initiatives. Here’s a quick look at what’s been happening:
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U.S. Consulates Resume F & J Visa Appointments
Good news for many! As of June 18, the U.S. Department of State has officially restarted scheduling visa appointments for F-1 and J-1 student and exchange visitor applicants. This follows a temporary hold that was put in place to implement new screening procedures. While this move alleviates immediate uncertainty, applicants should still be prepared for potentially limited availability and longer processing times as consulates work through any accumulated backlogs.
Published: June 18, 2025
U.S. Consulates Resume Scheduling F&J Visa Appointments – International au pair association -
New Social Media Screening for All Student & Exchange Visa Applicants
Alongside the resumption of interviews, the State Department has rolled out new guidelines requiring comprehensive social media screening for all F, M, and J visa applicants. Consular officers will now review online presence to identify any indications of hostility toward the U.S. or advocacy for threats. This new policy, which emerged after a pilot program, aims to enhance national security vetting but has raised civil rights and privacy concerns among various groups.
Published: June 20, 2025
Legislative Bulletin — Friday, June 20, 2025 - National Immigration Forum -
Exchange Program Seeks Host Families for Summer Cultural Immersion
On a more local note, a two-week summer language and culture camp for Chinese high school students is actively seeking host families in communities around East Dundee, Illinois. This initiative, run by Greenheart Exchange, offers a unique opportunity for families to experience cultural exchange firsthand without a year-long commitment. The program aims to give students a head start on American culture and English, fostering mutual appreciation and understanding between participants and host families.
Published: June 17, 2025
Exchange program looking for host families for two weeks this summer -
International Student Interest in U.S. Declines Amid Policy Uncertainty
New data from Keystone Education Group indicates a significant drop in international student interest in the U.S., particularly for Master’s programs, between May 2024 and May 2025. This downturn correlates strongly with recent policy announcements regarding education funding and visa issuance. While many students are opting to defer rather than abandon their plans, the perception of the U.S. as a welcoming destination has shifted, with more students now considering alternatives like the UK and Europe.
Published: June 18, 2025
Real-time Policy Impacts on US International Mobility -
Trump Administration Considers Expanding Travel Ban to Dozens More Countries
A recent legislative bulletin reveals that the Trump administration is contemplating a significant expansion of its travel ban policy, potentially adding thirty-six more countries, primarily from Africa, the Caribbean, Central Asia, and some Pacific Islands. This move, outlined in a State Department memo, would require targeted nations to align with new U.S. benchmarks for identity verification and security or face restrictions. This potential expansion signals a sustained and possibly intensifying shift towards restrictive immigration policies.
Published: June 20, 2025
Legislative Bulletin — Friday, June 20, 2025 - National Immigration Forum
Tools & Tips
- SEVIS Help Hub: This online resource is a central point for designated school officials (DSOs) and, indirectly, for exchange visitors. It offers user guides, fact sheets, and FAQs related to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Understanding how SEVIS works can be helpful, especially with increased scrutiny and new vetting procedures.
Student and Exchange Visitor Program | ICE - Cultural Vistas for J-1 Internships: If you’re looking for internship opportunities under the J1 visa, Cultural Vistas is a specialized organization that facilitates J1 internship placements. They can be a great starting point for finding programs that align with your professional goals and navigating the specific requirements for J1 interns.
US J-1 Intern Visa 2025 for Students and Recent Graduates - Application Process and Requirements - DAAD Scholarship
Fun Fact
Did you know the J1 Exchange Visitor Program has deep roots in fostering global understanding? It was officially established under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, championed by Senator J. William Fulbright. The entire program was designed to “increase mutual understanding between the people of the US and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges,” a mission that continues to guide it today.
We’d love to hear from you! Have you participated in any J1 events or utilized new J1 tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with us—we’re featuring selected community voices in next week’s edition.