A number of U.S. colleges and universities are recommending that international students come back to campus before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration due to concerns about potential travel bans. While Trump's plans remain uncertain, more than a dozen schools have issued advisories urging students to reduce risks by returning before Jan. 20.
Trump's Past Actions
In 2017, Trump implemented an executive order banning travel to the U.S. from seven predominantly Muslim countries, leading to travel disruptions for students, faculty, and other travelers. The ban affected 15 nations during Trump's presidency, resulting in over 40,000 visa refusals. President Joe Biden rescinded these orders in 2021.
Impact on International Students
Over 1.1 million international students were enrolled in U.S. institutions during the 2023-24 academic year, with students from India and China comprising a significant portion. Concerns about potential restrictions have heightened anxiety among students, prompting some to alter their travel plans.
Potential Future Actions
While Trump's transition team did not provide specific details, Trump has previously indicated intentions to revive and expand the travel ban, including implementing new screening measures for non-U.S. citizens. He also mentioned plans to revoke visas for individuals deemed anti-American or anti-Semitic.
Guidance from Schools
Various universities, including Ivy League institutions and others across the country, have advised international students to return before Inauguration Day and prepare for possible immigration delays. Schools like Cornell University have warned students from previously targeted nations to expect a potential travel ban soon after the inauguration and advised students from China and India to return before the semester begins.
