Hey everyone! If you’re dreaming of studying in the USA this year, I’ve got some big news for you.
After a few weeks of waiting, the US Embassy has finally started processing student visas again as of June 18, 2025! I know many of you were getting anxious, so this is a huge relief.
This means if you’re applying for an F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa and have your I-20 ready, it’s time to get your visa slot booked.
But Hold On, There's a New Step in Town
Along with the good news, there’s something new you need to be aware of. The US Embassy will now be looking at your social media accounts as part of the visa process.
Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds! I’m here to walk you through what this means for you.
Think of it like this: they just want to make sure the person they’re reading about in your application matches the person you are online.
So, What Do They Want to See?
When you fill out your DS-160 form, you’ll now have to share all the social media accounts you’ve used in the past five years. This could be your Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or any other public profiles.
They’ll be taking a peek at your public posts to get a better sense of who you are. They’re mainly looking out for anything that seems risky or raises red flags, like posts that show hate or extremist views.
I recently heard about a student who got a 221(g) refusal, which is a temporary rejection, simply because they forgot to make their Instagram profile public for the visa officer to see. So, it’s really important to follow these new steps.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re getting ready for your visa application, here are a few simple tips to keep in mind:
- Keep it clean and simple: You don’t need to post anything that’s overly political or on a sensitive topic.
- Be your genuine self: Make sure your profile reflects the person you’ve described in your visa application.
- Don’t suddenly delete everything: A sudden cleanup might look suspicious. It’s better to just be mindful of what you’re posting.
- Do a quick check of your old posts: If your account is public, it’s a good idea to scroll through your history and see if there’s anything you might want to archive.
The goal is to be transparent and honest. They aren’t trying to catch you out, but just want to ensure everything is above board.
To Sum It All Up:
- Visa appointments are open! You can go ahead and book your slot.
- They’ll be checking social media. Be prepared for this new step.
- Stay calm and be careful. Keep your online presence clean and authentic.
So, get those applications ready and good luck! You’ve got this.
