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US universities advise international students to return amid Trump's immigration plans
U.S. universities are urging international students to return before Trump's inauguration amid fears of stricter immigration policies.
Representational Image. / iStock
Anticipating major changes to American immigration policies under the Trump presidency, several U.S. universities are urging international students and staff to return to campus before his inauguration in January. Concerns are mounting about potential disruptions to travel and visa statuses as president-elect Donald Trump has pledged to implement large-scale deportations and restrictive immigration measures.
The University of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Wesleyan University, among others, have issued travel advisories. These advisories recommend returning to the U.S. before January 20 to avoid potential complications similar to those experienced during Trump’s first term. Notably, in 2017, Trump signed an executive order banning nationals from several predominantly Muslim countries, North Korea, and Venezuela.
“A lot of students have concerns about their visas and whether they'll be allowed to continue their education,” University of Colorado Denver professor Chloe East told the BBC.
Yale University has also taken steps to address concerns, hosting webinars through its Office of International Students and Scholars to discuss potential immigration shifts under the incoming administration.
Uncertainty Among International Students
The Higher Ed Immigration Portal estimates over 400,000 undocumented students are currently enrolled in U.S. higher education. Many are now grappling with uncertainty surrounding their future.
During Trump’s first presidency, the administration attempted to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, which protects migrants brought to the U.S. as children. Although Trump’s border enforcement appointee, Tom Homan, has stated that violent criminals and national security threats would take priority for deportation, fears persist that other groups, including international students, could face heightened scrutiny.
"I feel like us international students with a visa might get affected, and it'll become easier to deport us," said Aoi Maeda, a Japanese student at Earlham College in Indiana. She expressed concerns about completing her degree in light of Trump's potential policies.
Students from China, in particular, are worried about the potential for stricter measures against Chinese nationals, amid heightened U.S.-China tensions.
Academic Communities Express Support
University officials and faculty members are working to provide support and guidance to affected students. Some have highlighted the stress and uncertainty international students are experiencing as a result of Trump’s past immigration record and current proposals.
"Students are incredibly overwhelmed and stressed out right now as a result of the uncertainty around immigration," Professor East noted.
The education community is also calling attention to the broader implications of Trump’s immigration policies on academic diversity and international collaboration. By urging caution and preparing students for possible disruptions, universities are striving to mitigate the effects of an uncertain political climate.
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