As the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump approaches, fear and uncertainty loom over US college campuses. Universities are urging international students to return to the United States early, anticipating potential immigration policy changes, including a renewed travel ban.
Concerns Over Travel Bans and Visa Restrictions
More than 1.1 million international students are currently enrolled in US colleges. Trump has promised stricter immigration measures, including expanding the previous travel ban on predominantly Muslim countries and revoking visas for individuals labeled as “radical anti-American and antisemitic.” While these proposals remain unimplemented, their potential impact has led universities to issue precautionary guidance.
Cornell University has advised students traveling abroad to return before the spring semester begins, warning that a travel ban could target countries such as Iran, Libya, North Korea, and possibly China and India. The University of Southern California echoed similar concerns, recommending international students arrive at least a week before the semester to avoid disruptions.
Uncertainty for International Students
Students face not only academic pressures but also uncertainty about their ability to continue their studies. “It’s a scary time for international students,” said Pramath Pratap Misra, a recent graduate of New York University (NYU), which hosts the largest number of international students in the US. NYU and other institutions have reassured students of their commitment to supporting cross-border mobility.
Promises and Contradictions in Immigration Policy
While Trump has proposed granting green cards to skilled international graduates, his campaign clarified this would exclude individuals deemed ideologically incompatible with American values. The president-elect’s focus on “ideological screening” has further heightened concerns, particularly among students from targeted regions or with dissenting political views.
University Responses and Guidance
Harvard, MIT, and other universities have urged international students to budget extra time for returning to campus before new policies take effect. Institutions like UCLA have reiterated their commitment to protecting students’ immigration information, offering some reassurance amid a climate of fear.
A Return to Restrictive Policies?
Stuart Anderson, director of the National Foundation for American Policy, noted, “The best predictor of what will happen in a second Trump administration is what occurred during the first.” Universities and advocacy groups are bracing for a repeat of restrictive policies that previously disrupted international education and employment pathways.
As the January 20 inauguration nears, the atmosphere remains tense, with students and institutions alike navigating the challenges of an uncertain future.
