The US Department of State has ordered a review of the online activities of all individuals applying for a visa to attend the prestigious Harvard University, multiple media outlets reported Friday.
US embassies and consulates were instructed to begin the process immediately, according to CNN and Politico, which cited an internal directive from the Department of State.
The review is not limited to students but also includes researchers and guest lecturers.
According to the directive, the evaluation involves a comprehensive examination of applicants’ online presence.
If an applicant has no online presence or if their social media profiles are private, consulate staff are tasked with determining whether this could signify evasive behaviour and question their credibility.
The aim of this measure is reportedly to ascertain whether visa applicants have been involved in antisemitic activities. This initiative at Harvard is viewed as a pilot project that could be expanded to other American universities.
US media also recently reported that the government is considering increased scrutiny of potential foreign students and participants in exchange programmes.
Harvard poses a particular challenge for President Donald Trump’s administration. Unlike other universities, Harvard has resisted US government requirements, leading Trump to cut billions in subsidies, accusing institutions like Harvard of not taking a strong enough stance against pro-Palestinian protests and tolerating antisemitic incidents on campus.
