URBANA — Some students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have lost their visas amid the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration.
U of I spokesperson Robin Kaler confirmed Tuesday that multiple foreign students on campus have had their visas revoked.
“We are working directly with affected students to help them connect with appropriate resources and understand their options,” she said in a statement sent via email.
Kaler declined to share the number of students who were impacted or the federal government’s reasons for changing their status.
The Trump administration first started revoking visas and attempting to deport some international students who joined pro-Palestinian protests. The Associated Press has reported the new wave includes those with previous traffic violations.
Some students have not been given any reason for the change.
According to an online letter from Chancellor Robert Jones and Provost John Coleman, International Student and Scholar Services has reached out to each affected student. The letter notes that the university has no authority to reverse the federal government’s decision on the visas.
The letter also includes information about lawyers for students who choose to fight the visa decision. Jones and Coleman said students should consider “making plans to exit the United States immediately.”
“ISSS is encouraging students to speak with their academic programs for guidance on continuing their degree programs,” the two wrote. “If possible, the university is encouraging colleges and departments to provide alternative learning options, including online learning, to allow students to complete their degree programs.”