Across the US, international students have faced sudden visa revocations and status terminations, leading to legal challenges.
Federal officials initially restored their status. However, new guidelines were introduced on April 28, allowing quicker deportations based on broader criteria.
These criteria include visa revocation and database matches. At least 1,222 students at 187 colleges have been affected since late March.
The new guidelines allow for terminating students' status if their visas are revoked. Status can also be terminated if their names appear in a criminal or fingerprint database.
International students must obtain a visa to study in the U.S. They must demonstrate sufficient financial support and be admitted to a approved school.
Once in the country, they must maintain good academic standing. Their status is maintained in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Colleges have discovered students' status terminated by the government, a shift from past practices. Students have filed lawsuits, with temporary restraining orders granted in some cases.
International students have also been caught in a standoff between Harvard and the US administration. This involves a restriction on Harvard's ability to host international students.