US vows to use ‘every tool’ in crackdown on international students

The Trump administration is tightening visa application processes for international students, instructing U.S. embassies to halt new appointments for student visas and expand social media screening. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s directive comes amid Trump’s criticism of elite universities, leading to funding cuts and policy changes that could deter foreign students, with a projected 70% decrease in U.S. applications by 2025. As universities warn of the implications for talent and tuition revenue, the administration emphasizes rigorous vetting to ensure lawful intentions among applicants.