International Students Urged to Return to US Before Trump’s Inauguration Amid Travel Ban Concerns.
With Donald Trump’s return to the White House just weeks away, US colleges are preparing for potential ripple effects that could impact international students.
As January 20 approaches—the day of Trump’s inauguration—several universities are urging their international students to return to campus before the political landscape shifts.
The move reflects growing concern over the possibility of new travel restrictions, reminiscent of Trump’s previous term when a travel ban left many students stranded abroad. Even though India and China aren’t currently on Trump’s radar of targeted countries, institutions are treading carefully.
A memo from Cornell University highlighted that while the current list doesn’t include these nations, future changes could affect students from both countries. Given India recently surpassed China in sending the most students to US universities, the warning carries extra weight.
Last year alone, over 330,000 Indian students enrolled in US institutions, contributing to the 1.1 million total international student population in the country. Their presence is not only academically significant but also financially critical for many universities, making any disruption potentially costly.
Trump’s rhetoric on immigration has always been a point of contention. His latest proposals mention expanding travel bans on several Muslim-majority countries, including Iran, Libya, Iraq, Sudan, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen.
He has also hinted at revoking visas for foreigners deemed “radical anti-American or antisemitic.”
Yet, in an interesting twist, Trump has suggested that foreign graduates of US colleges could automatically receive green cards— a proposal that hinges on Congressional approval.
The uncertainty surrounding these policies has left institutions like the University of Southern California, home to over 17,000 international students, taking no chances.
According to CNN, USC has advised its international student body to return at least a week before the inauguration, citing concerns over potential executive orders that could affect travel and visa processing.
As the date draws closer, the anxiety in university halls is palpable. International students are closely following Trump’s evolving policies, uncertain of what the future holds but hopeful for a smooth transition. For now, universities are doing their best to keep the doors open—and the welcome mat out.
