SALT LAKE CITY — The University of Utah has confirmed that approximately 20 of its international students or recent graduates have had their visas revoked as of April 9 — a reflection of heightened immigration enforcement taking place across the U.S.
Currently, the University of Utah hosts 3,733 students on F-1 visas and another 371 on J-1 visas, which includes those participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT), a temporary work program for international graduates. University officials stated that visa terminations were attributed to factors such as criminal background checks and failure to maintain legal nonimmigrant status.
“We’re operating under enhanced immigration enforcement policies,” a university spokesperson said. “As a public institution, we are obligated to comply with both state and federal regulations.”
Other Utah Colleges Also Affected
The University of Utah isn’t alone in reporting impacts. Several other Utah colleges have disclosed that their international students have faced similar issues:
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Utah Tech University reported nine students lost their visas — including four who were set to graduate soon.
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Southern Utah University said nine students were affected by changes in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
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Weber State University confirmed five students had been impacted.
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Utah Valley University reported three cases.
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Snow College said two students were affected.
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Utah State University acknowledged that students were impacted but declined to release specific numbers to protect their privacy.
These developments come as universities across the nation, including top institutions like Harvard and Stanford, also report a wave of visa revocations.
What’s Causing the Sudden Visa Cancellations?
While international student visa revocations are not entirely new, university officials say what’s unusual now is the lack of communication. In many cases, SEVIS records — which track non-immigrant students and are overseen by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security — are being terminated without prior notice to the student or the institution.
The University of Utah noted that visa cancellations have included students facing legal charges, such as DUIs or domestic violence allegations. However, some political rhetoric has also drawn attention. Former President Donald Trump previously stated he would deport foreign students linked to pro-Palestinian protests. More recently, Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested international students could be removed if they are suspected of engaging in criminal or protest-related activity on college campuses, according to the Associated Press.
Guidance and Precautions for International Students
The University of Utah has reached out to its international student community with updated guidance aimed at preserving visa status. In a recent email to students and scholars, the school emphasized the importance of remaining in “good standing” with immigration authorities.
Students are being instructed to:
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Maintain full-time academic enrollment or approved employment
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Follow all U.S. laws and university regulations
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Keep all immigration paperwork valid and accessible
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Carry essential documentation, including their I-94 travel record, passport, and visa details
Additionally, students are being advised to avoid non-essential international travel during this period of increased enforcement. More information on maintaining F-1 and J-1 visa compliance is available through the university’s international student office.
As the situation unfolds, institutions are urging vigilance and preparedness, recognizing the growing challenges faced by international students trying to complete their education in the United States.
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