Overview

• The Trump administration has revoked more than 300 student visas, citing pro-Palestinian activism, minor infractions, and vague foreign policy concerns.
• Colleges report that federal authorities are bypassing universities, directly terminating students' legal status without prior notice, leaving institutions and students in the dark.
• International students, who contributed $43.8 billion to the U.S. economy in the 2023-2024 academic year, are reconsidering the U.S. as a study destination due to policy unpredictability.
• Legal challenges and protests are escalating, with federal judges temporarily blocking some deportations as critics argue the measures undermine free speech and academic freedom.
• The crackdown disproportionately affects students from regions like the Middle East and China, with some deportations linked to minor offenses or retroactive enforcement of infractions.