Visa plans imposed by the US government create apprehension among international students
U.S. Visa Changes Affecting International Students in Potsdam
Potsdam, Germany - Ongoing modifications in the United States' visa issuance process are causing disruptions for international students, including those in Potsdam. According to a university spokesperson, approximately ten students at the University of Potsdam, planning to study in the U.S. in September, are directly impacted by the visa ban. The International Office is currently offering guidance on potential solutions.
While it remains uncertain if scheduled semesters abroad in the U.S. have been canceled, students at some Berlin universities have already made the decision to stay.
The U.S. government, led by President Donald Trump, has taken a more active role in higher education policy. In addition to attempting to prevent elite university Harvard from accepting international students, the administration plans to scrutinize international students and participants in exchange programs more closely.
Reports suggest that the U.S. State Department has instructed embassies and consulates globally, including in Germany, not to arrange new appointments for student visa applications for the time being. Approximately 8,000 to 9,000 Germans study in the U.S. every year, according to the Federal Statistical Office.
The German Rectors' Conference advises students to consult their university's International Office and contact their respective scholarship organizations for further assistance.
The U.S.'s recent policy interventions have resulted in pauses in scheduling new student visa interviews, heightened social media screening, and increased vetting processes. These developments are causing delays and uncertainties for international students from Potsdam hoping to study in the U.S. Students who already have visa interviews should continue with them and stay in touch with their university's international office for guidance.
Education-and-self-development and politics are intertwined as the U.S. government, led by President Donald Trump, has taken a more active role in higher education policy. This involvement includes attempting to prevent elite university Harvard from accepting international students and plans to scrutinize international students and participants in exchange programs more closely.
General-news reports suggest that the U.S. State Department has instructed embassies and consulates globally, including in Germany, not to arrange new appointments for student visa applications for the time being. This visa ban directly impacts approximately ten students at the University of Potsdam, who were planning to study in the U.S. in September.
