The United States has suspended all unscheduled student visa appointments globally as it prepares to introduce enhanced social media vetting for international student and exchange visa applicants — a move likely to impact many Kenyan students hoping to study abroad.
A memo circulated within U.S. diplomatic missions instructs embassies and consulates to remove unfilled slots for F and J visas. Scheduled interviews may still proceed, but new bookings have been halted “until further guidance is issued,” according to reports from U.S. media outlets.
Implications for Kenyan Students
Kenya consistently ranks among the top sources of sub-Saharan African students in the U.S. According to the 2023 Open Doors Report, over 4,000 Kenyan students were enrolled in American institutions, many pursuing graduate and undergraduate degrees in STEM, business, and health sciences.
The embassy in Nairobi has not issued country-specific clarification, but students awaiting appointments are advised to monitor updates on the official U.S. Embassy Kenya website and social media pages.
Tougher Social Media Screening Ahead
The memo also signals preparations for broader social media scrutiny of all student visa applicants. While details are sparse, the expanded screening may involve more comprehensive checks on applicants’ digital activity, raising concerns among civil rights groups and education stakeholders.
This follows earlier policies requiring applicants to provide social media usernames used in the past five years.
The U.S. government’s move coincides with escalating tensions on American campuses where pro-Palestinian protests have attracted political backlash and federal intervention. University funding freezes and visa revocations for international students have further complicated matters.
Global Backlash and Local Impact
China — which sends the largest number of students to U.S. universities — has formally objected to the move, urging Washington to protect international learners’ rights. U.S. universities have also expressed concern, citing the heavy financial and research toll of fewer international enrollments.
For Kenyan students, the delay in interview scheduling — combined with concerns about increased vetting — could encourage a shift toward alternative destinations like Canada, the UK, or Australia.
As of now, there is no clear timeline for when new student visa appointments will resume. Kenyan students planning to begin their studies in the U.S. this fall are advised to consult with education agents and track official updates.
