By Brendan McGovern, United University Professions–Binghamton Chapter President
At least five international students at Binghamton University have had their visas revoked, as confirmed by the university and reported by the student newspaper, Pipe Dream. These students are among 21 across the SUNY system who have experienced changes to their visa status as of April 9. The university is working closely with the affected students, providing individualized guidance and assistance through its Office of International Student and Scholar Services.
This development is part of a broader national trend under the Trump administration, which has seen a significant increase in the revocation of student visas. Over 1,000 international students across more than 170 colleges and universities in at least 40 states have reportedly had their visas revoked. The administration’s actions have often been sudden and lacking clear explanations, leading to confusion and fear within academic communities.
The revocations have affected students from various countries, particularly India and China, many of whom have no history of criminal activity. Some students were informed about visa terminations via email, citing vague reasons like background checks or revoked visas, often linked to minor infractions. This approach departs from past procedures, where schools typically initiated legal status changes.
The federal government’s targeting of universities has been wide-ranging, from funding cuts and guidance warning against diversity, equity, and inclusion programming to the targeting of student activists. Senior administration officials have explained much of the crackdown by accusing college campuses of allowing antisemitism and ideological indoctrination to spread unchecked.
These actions have raised concerns about the potential targeting of international faculty and staff as well. At New York University, for instance, “some members” of the community, including at least one adjunct faculty member, have been affected by the administration’s immigration crackdown. The university has provided resources and support to those impacted, but the situation underscores the broader implications of the administration’s policies on academic communities.
The use of artificial intelligence by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to scrutinize the social media activity of foreign nationals has further fueled criticism and uncertainty surrounding the crackdown. Critics argue that the administration may conflate criticism of Israel with antisemitism, thereby infringing on constitutionally protected expression.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative for academic institutions and communities to remain vigilant and supportive of international students, faculty, and staff. The potential for further visa revocations and the broader implications for academic freedom and free speech necessitate a collective response to uphold the values of higher education.