Banned from Learning in America: Iranian students who dreamed of studying in the U.S. now face an academic crisis. New visa bans, delays, and policy shifts have blocked hundreds of hopeful scholars, leaving many stranded or forced to defer their futures.
Blocking students because of their nationality is deeply unfair. These young people are seeking education, not trouble. Punishing them for their government’s actions only deepens division. The U.S. should lead by example by supporting access to knowledge, not limiting it.
Miler Michel
Summary
- Iranian students blocked by new U.S. travel restrictions
- Over 1,000 student visas revoked since March 2025
- Mandatory social media review delays applications
- Visa processing times stretch beyond 24 months
- U.S. universities warn students not to travel
- Civil rights review launched over discrimination claims
- Iranian student visa approvals fell 42% in one year
New Travel Ban Strands Iranian Students
In June 2025, a U.S. executive order banned entry for Iranian citizens, including those with valid student visas. This policy came just days after airstrikes hit Iranian targets. As a result, many students who had already been accepted to U.S. schools cannot enter the country.
Visas Revoked Without Warning
Since March, over 1,000 Iranian students have had their visas canceled, often without explanation. Some had already begun their programs; others were scheduled to arrive this summer. In total, more than 4,700 Iranian student records have been terminated in recent years.
Social Media Now Required for All
Applicants must now submit their public social media history to qualify for a student visa. This process has sparked backlash among privacy advocates, who believe it unfairly targets students from countries like Iran.
Visa Processing Takes Too Long
Many Iranian students are now waiting over two years for visa approval. During that time, they risk losing their place at universities. These long delays are especially hard on graduate students in science and tech fields.
U.S. Schools Warn Students Not to Leave
Major universities like MIT and UMass Amherst have told international students to avoid traveling outside the U.S. during breaks. Even if they hold valid visas, they may not be allowed back in under the new rules.
Civil Rights Office Steps In
The Department of Homeland Security’s Civil Rights division is now reviewing complaints of racial and national discrimination in student visa revocations. Iranian applicants are among the most affected.
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