Washington: Since late March, more than 1,024 foreign students at 160 U.S. colleges, universities and university systems have had their visas revoked or their legal residency status terminated, according to an Associated Press review of school statements, correspondence with officials and court records
The crackdown comes amid nationwide protests over Gaza, where pro‑Palestinian demonstrations have swept across campus quads and lecture halls. The administration’s policy—often referred to as “catch and revoke”—uses visa authority to target international students whose social media activity or protest attendance is deemed “anti‑American” or supportive of designated groups.
Critics warn this approach chills free speech, deters future global scholars from studying in the U.S., and threatens universities’ financial health, since international tuition makes up a significant revenue stream.
As affected students face potential deportation or detention, university leaders and rights groups are calling on Congress and the courts to rein in what they view as an overreach of executive power.
