More colleges in the U.S. are seeing international students lose their visas without warning, raising concerns about government actions. Schools like Harvard, Stanford, UCLA, Michigan, and Ohio State have all been affected, reported by NDTV.
Some visa cancellations seem linked to student activism, especially around pro-Palestinian protests. But others lost their visas over things like past traffic violations, or for reasons still unknown.
Students usually find out their visa is revoked only when they check federal systems. These students are on F-1 visas, which require good grades and proof of financial support. The Department of Homeland Security and ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) are in charge of student visa rules.
University leaders are worried this could scare off future international students. Sarah Spreitzer from the American Council on Education says this kind of fast, public visa removal is unusual and concerning.
Colleges are now telling students to always carry their passports and documents. UMass Boston’s chancellor called these “unprecedented times” and said schools must be ready to protect their students.
Harvard found out about some revoked visas during a regular check but doesn’t know the exact reasons. In a statement, Harvard said it values international students and the important ideas they bring to campus.
