Medford, Ore. – Oregon State University (OSU) is currently investigating the sudden revocation of visas for more than a dozen international students, a move initiated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
On April 10, OSU officials informed students and staff that a number of international students had been impacted by the abrupt cancellation of their visas. The university later confirmed that 13 students had their records terminated in the federal immigration database without warning or prior notice.
OSU administrators expressed concern over the DHS’s actions, which have disrupted the lives of international students who depend on their visas to pursue academic studies and contribute to the university community. In a statement, the university reassured affected students that it is offering support and resources, and the Office of International Services has been reaching out to those impacted.
The university emphasized that international students and staff who maintain their immigration status should not face such sudden visa revocations. OSU noted that it has a long history of sponsoring international scholars and aims to provide a stable, supportive environment for its international student body.
In an effort to address the situation, OSU has ramped up efforts to monitor student immigration records more frequently to better assist international students and to prevent similar incidents in the future. University officials also assured the community that they are working alongside several other institutions in legal action to challenge federal policies that have led to the revocation of student visas.
“OSU has long prided itself on being a welcoming institution for students from around the world, and we are committed to advocating for their rights and addressing these unprecedented disruptions to their academic careers,” an OSU spokesperson said.
The issue extends beyond OSU, with similar cases reported at the University of Oregon (UO) in Eugene. Four international students at UO were also informed that their visas had been revoked without warning, sparking protests on campus as students rallied against the federal actions.
International students who are concerned about their immigration status are encouraged to contact the Office of International Services at OSU or consult the university’s website for additional resources and support.
The situation has raised broader questions about the stability of immigration policies affecting international students across the U.S. While the outcome of the legal challenges remains uncertain, OSU’s swift response highlights the ongoing effort to provide support and stability for the international student community during a time of uncertainty.