Student Visas being revoked in the US without notifying colleges, sparking concern

Colleges Sound Alarm as Student Visas Are Canceled Without Warning

A growing number of colleges and universities across the United States are raising red flags over the sudden cancellation of international student visas — often without any prior notification to the institutions involved. Prestigious schools such as Harvard, Stanford, UCLA, Ohio State, and the University of Michigan are among those affected, pointing to a troubling rise in visa revocations under heightened government scrutiny.

Why Are Visas Being Revoked?

The exact reasons vary, but some cases involve students who participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations or expressed political views. One such example is Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder and protest leader at Columbia University, who was detained by authorities. However, other students with no protest involvement have also had their visas revoked — in some cases for seemingly minor infractions such as traffic violations.

Students Left in the Dark

In many instances, students and their universities only learn about visa status changes by checking federal immigration databases. International students in the US are typically on F-1 visas, which require proof of academic enrollment and financial stability. The Department of Homeland Security's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) monitors compliance — but communication has reportedly broken down.

Higher Ed Leaders Voice Concern

The unpredictable nature of these revocations is rattling students and administrators alike. Sarah Spreitzer, vice president for government relations at the American Council on Education, warned that these actions could discourage international students from studying in the US.

"The very public actions being taken by ICE and Homeland Security are unusual," she said. "A swift visa revocation without a clear security threat is something we haven’t seen before. The speed and opacity of these decisions are alarming."

Campus Response and Preparedness

In response, universities are advising international students to carry their immigration paperwork at all times and are calling for greater transparency from federal agencies. Marcelo Suárez-Orozco, Chancellor of UMass Boston, emphasized the need for preparedness in what he described as a rapidly shifting landscape.

"These are unprecedented times," he told the AP. "Our democratic norms are being tested. We must be vigilant, proactive, and protective of our international student communities."

Harvard and Others Caught Off Guard

Harvard University uncovered visa issues during a routine review, but the specific reasons for the revocations remain unclear. The university expressed strong support for its international student body.

“Harvard deeply values the global perspectives our students and scholars bring,” the Harvard International Office stated. “Their presence fuels discovery, fosters cross-cultural dialogue, and enriches our entire academic community.”