URBANA — The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is preparing for the Trump
administration’s plan that would restrict visas for some Chinese international students.
The U.S. Department of State announced it will begin revoking visas for Chinese students in certain fields and those with ties to the Chinese Communist Party.
Many scholars at the University of Illinois are anxious after hearing the US State Department will begin revoking the visas of some Chinese students.
International students who need to renew their expired F-1 or J-1 entry visa may not be able to return to the U.S. if unable to schedule a renewal appointment… according to an email sent by the International Student and Scholar Services.
Tian Yang is an international graduate student studying computer science. He said a fellow student is now in limbo.
“Actually, my future roommate, who just signed up the lease with me and paid the deposit, like a 3-month deposit, and he’s like, having his visas applying, but he’s waiting for like six weeks, but with this policy, he might just get rejected or revoked,” said Yang.
The email further read that obtaining new entry visas may be significantly delayed, and the International Student and Scholar Services would not speculate when scheduling appointments will resume.
In a statement to IPM News, a university spokesperson said that officials plan “engage in a thorough analysis” while trying to “seek clarification on recent announcements so we can determine the most appropriate ways to move forward. “
The statement also emphasized the importance of international diversity. “We will approach this situation with empathy, compassion and a deep respect for the dignity and privacy of those affected.”