In an alarming development for international education, the United States government has been canceling student visas abruptly and without prior notice, leaving thousands of foreign students, particularly those from India, in legal limbo.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which tracks visa status for foreign students, is being utilized to cancel active records, resulting in rapid deportation.
Multiple colleges have complained that the US government has began canceling international student visas without prior notice or explanation, which is disturbing. These unexpected terminations are being processed through the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), which maintains international students’ legal status. The affected students are receiving abrupt termination emails, which frequently force them to leave the country immediately.
University administrators have expressed worry about the lack of communication and formal reasons from federal authorities, describing the process as non-transparent and unfair. A substantial 5% drop in international student enrollment was seen in August 2024 alone, with nearly 90,000 Indian students apparently fleeing the United States. This departure might result in an astonishing $5 billion loss in annual tuition income for American colleges. Additionally, Minnesota State University, Mankato recorded five similar visa revocations during an internal audit, which was precipitated by the arrest of a Turkish student whose visa had been revoked owing to a past DUI incident. These developments have raised concerns among international students and education advocates alike.
Expert View
Policy experts say that unexpected, unexplained acts may violate norms of due process and fair treatment, discouraging future international enrollments. Meanwhile, universities are asking explanation from the US Department of Homeland Security.
What Students Should Do Now
- Check SEVIS status regularly.
- Consult international student advisors immediately if termination notices are received.
- Prepare legal support and immigration counsel to navigate the next steps.
- Avoid violations like DUI or status lapses that may be flagged retroactively.