Trump wants to introduce social media checks for student visas

New screenings and complex requirements may soon come into force for foreign youth planning to study in the United States. According to Politico, the Trump administration has begun a thorough revision of the student visa system, and in this process, applicants’ personal information as well as their social media activity will be reviewed.

Social networks — the new “visa barrier”

Reportedly, students arriving in the U.S. for education will no longer be evaluated only based on passports or academic credentials, but also by their activity on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter). That is, each applicant will be monitored not only for academic ability but also for political views and online behavior.

As part of this screening process, it is said that U.S. embassies and consulates have been temporarily instructed to stop scheduling new interviews for student visas. This may hinder the educational plans of many young people.

Behind it — a political clash with Harvard

The decision to tighten student screenings comes amid a prolonged conflict between the Trump administration and Harvard University leadership. On May 22, President Trump announced that he had banned the admission of foreign students to this university.

This decision is mainly linked to the fact that, after Israel launched its operation in Gaza, pro-Palestinian protests were held on the Harvard campus, and the university administration did not take strict measures against them.

Billion-dollar financial pressure

According to an official statement released on April 14, the U.S. federal government froze more than $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts allocated to Harvard University. This is considered one of the largest financial pressures in the history of the institution.

Will educational doors close to foreigners?

The U.S. accepts thousands of foreign students every year, and this is one of the key factors supporting the global competitiveness of its higher education system. However, due to new requirements and screenings, many young people intending to study in the U.S. may turn to other countries.

Conclusion: Trump’s policy back in the spotlight

The initiative to screen students through their social media raises serious concerns not only about privacy but also about academic freedom. These decisions by Donald Trump have drawn international attention in terms of both higher education and foreign policy.