Bisina SomtoThe United States has revoked more than 6,000 student visas in 2025, marking one of the Trump administration’s toughest immigration enforcement measures so far.
A U.S. State Department official confirmed the number, according to Travelobiz, empahzing a stronger focus on foreign students’ activities, visa compliance, and campus conduct.
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200 and 300 students had their visas cancelled due to alleged links with extremist or terrorist groups, which is prohibited under provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
The majority of cases between 4,000 and 6,000 stemmed from other violations, including:
- Criminal charges such as assault and burglary
- Driving under the influence (DUI) offences
- Overstaying visa periods
- Breaking student visa conditions
Impact on International Students and U.S. Universities
The mass cancellations come at a time of rising campus unrest across the country. The Trump administration has placed particular emphasis on protests tied to the Israel–Gaza conflict, accusing some demonstrations of crossing into antisemitism.
Officials have singled out elite schools such as Harvard, Brown, and the University of Pennsylvania, claiming they have failed to adequately protect Jewish students.
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Critics argue that the administration is using immigration enforcement as a tool to pressure universities over campus free speech, raising concerns about academic freedom and the future of international student enrollment.
The student visa cancellations are part of a broader tightening of U.S. immigration policy this year.
Key developments include:
- May 2025: Suspension of new student visa interviews at embassies and consulates, with stricter social media vetting for applicants.
- June 2025: Ban on “birth tourism,” requiring visa applicants to provide access to their social media accounts during national security screening.
- Asylum Policy: The U.S. now recognizes only legally registered civil marriages when reviewing spousal applications, excluding customary or religious unions.
- April 2025: The Department of Homeland Security mandated that foreign nationals staying longer than 30 days must register with federal authorities or face fines, imprisonment, or deportation.
What This Means for Global Education
With over 6,000 student visas already revoked in 2025, U.S. universities face growing uncertainty around international enrollment. Many schools depend heavily on foreign students for tuition revenue and global reputation, meaning stricter policies could reshape the quality of higher education.
At the same time, international students are being warned to exercise extra caution, strictly comply with visa regulations, and prepare for increased scrutiny on their campus activities, travel records, and even social media usage.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
She covers a wide range of topics, from celebrity interviews to industry trends and film reviews.
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