International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) has never been just about paperwork or policies. It’s about people—navigating a system that is complex, high-stakes, and constantly shifting.

In 2025, that work has never been more critical.

• Visa Processing Delays and Denials: The Trump administration has ordered U.S. embassies worldwide to halt new student visa interviews, citing plans to expand social media screening for all international applicants. This directive has caused significant delays and uncertainty for prospective international students. (Source)

• OPT Reporting Challenges: The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has sent notices to OPT students lacking employer information in SEVIS, reminding them of reporting requirements. This has led to confusion and concern among students and advisors, emphasizing the need for timely and accurate reporting. (Source)

• Policy Changes Affecting International Students: The Trump administration has attempted to revoke Harvard University’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), stripping the university of its authority to sponsor F- and J- visas for international students and scholars. This move has been widely criticized as a political retaliation against the university’s stance on academic freedom and diversity. (Source)

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Despite these challenges, ISSS professionals continue to demonstrate resilience and dedication, ensuring that international students receive the support they need to thrive.

From paper forms and file cabinets to SEVIS batch uploads and integrated CRMs, the tools have evolved. But the challenges? They’ve only grown.

And all of it happens under the pressure of getting it right—every time.

Despite the challenges, there’s real momentum. ISSS is stepping into a new era—one driven by smarter systems, deeper collaboration, and a renewed commitment to human-centered support.

At Via, we believe real innovation isn’t top-down. It starts with listening. That’s why we built Via Sparks Community: a direct channel for ISSS professionals to request features, vote on ideas, and shape the tools they use every day.

We’re not building software in a vacuum. We’re building it with the field, for the field.

Looking ahead, we see a future where ISSS teams are:

✅ Empowered by technology that reflects the way their offices actually work

✅ Supported by a community that shares solutions—not just frustrations

✅ Freed from rigid systems so they can focus on what matters most: students and scholars

Because the future of ISSS isn’t just about compliance. It’s about care.

It’s not about working harder. It’s about being better supported.

To Every ISSS Professional Reading This:

We see you.
We hear you.
And we’re building for you.