The Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration is hosting an informational webinar in response to ongoing U.S. study visa delays and expanded social media screening procedures, aimed at helping international students and higher-education professionals navigate current challenges. The session will feature live updates from U.S. embassies and consulates, expert analysis on policy shifts affecting F‑1, M‑1, and J‑1 visas including the new enhanced social media vetting requirements, and practical advice for planning around interview and processing delays. Speakers include Monica Andrade and Zuzana Čeplá‑Wootson from the Presidents’ Alliance, as well as Shelley Landry from Shorelight.
The webinar is valuable for prospective and current students, university administrators, international student advisors, and study‑abroad consultants. Topics will cover how to monitor appointment availability, manage administrative processing, deferral strategies, and institutional support resources. Registration is now open—you’ll gain key insights and tools to stay informed and proactive as policies continue to evolve
Why This Webinar Matters (Especially Now):
For international students who aspire to commence or continue their education in the United States, visa backlogs and appointment shortages have emerged as among the most pressing issues.. Thousands of students are left in a state of uncertainty, uncertain as to whether they will be able to arrive at campus in time, due to the limited availability of spaces at U.S. embassies, particularly in high-demand countries such as China and India.
The scope of this critical webinar extends beyond mere identification of the issue. It offers a guide to assist students, universities, and local communities in preparing for the future.
What You’ll Learn?
- Visa processing and availability updates from U.S. embassies and consulates in real time
- Analysis of the potential impact of visa delays and updates on the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program on student mobility, as well as ongoing policy shifts.
Who Should Attend?
- Prospective international scholars and current international students
- Admissions, student affairs, and international student services administrators at universities
- Education consultants, advisors, and policy analysts
- Any individual who is interested in the future of international education in the United States?
Meet the Expert Panel:
Get insights from some of the most respected voices in the field:
- Monica Andrade, Director of State Policy and Legal Strategy, Presidents’ Alliance
- Shelley Landry, Shorelight
- Zuzana Čeplá-Wootson, Deputy Director of Federal Policy, Presidents’ Alliance
These thought leaders bring firsthand expertise in visa trends, policy advocacy, and on-the-ground institutional support.
Take Action Now:
This webinar will provide you with practical tools and opportune insights, whether you are a university professional preparing for the spring 2026 intake or a student anxiously awaiting your visa. Be informed and prepared to avoid being caught off guard by visa delays. Register for the webinar.here https://www.presidentsalliance.org/internationalstudentvisadelays/.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is this Webinar about?
This webinar provides real-time updates on F‑, M‑, and J‑visa processing delays at U.S. embassies and consulates, including changes in scheduling, social media screening, and OPT implications.
Institutions and students will receive actionable insights on how these developments impact academic planning and enrollment timelines. -
Who should attend?
International students awaiting F‑1, M‑1, or J‑1 visas (initial or renewal)
University international offices handling admissions and visa questions
Campus advisors, education consultants, and community groups supporting student mobility -
What key topics will be covered?
Latest status of visa interview pauses or resumption at U.S. diplomatic missions
Updated social media screening requirements and applicant guidance (effective June 18, 2025)
Strategies for dealing with administrative processing delays
OPT-related updates and immigration policy shifts impacting enrollment decisions
