What International Students in the U.S. Need to Know: Risks, Rights, and Resources

International students in the United States are an integral part of the academic landscape, contributing not only to educational diversity but also to the country’s cultural richness.

However, in recent years, international students have faced increased challenges, particularly in light of evolving immigration policies.

The Trump administration’s heightened efforts to revoke visas and deport students—sometimes for seemingly minor infractions—has led to confusion and fear on college campuses across the nation.

With this backdrop, it is essential for international students to fully understand their rights, risks, and available resources to navigate the U.S. immigration system effectively.

This article will explore the key issues international students face, including visa status concerns, the risks associated with minor infractions, and the actions they can take to protect themselves.

Additionally, we’ll discuss how international students can prepare for potential challenges and how to stay informed about their legal rights.

The Current State of International Student Visas

The number of international students in the U.S. has been steadily increasing, with over one million students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities as of 2025.

Despite this growth, the Trump administration’s aggressive stance on immigration has had a significant impact on the experiences of international students, especially in regard to their visa status.

In 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ramped up their efforts to revoke student visas and deport individuals based on a range of issues.

Such actions, frequently driven by political reasons or trivial infractions, have fostered an atmosphere of fear and confusion among international students.

Key Visa Concerns and Changes

One of the most prominent issues faced by international students is the frequent revocation of visas and the threats of deportation.

For example, on May 22, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students, accusing the school of creating an unsafe environment by allowing “anti-American” protests and violent demonstrations.

The revocation impacted nearly 6,800 international students, forcing them to transfer or face losing their legal status.

The case at Harvard is just one example of how policies under the Trump administration have increasingly targeted international students for their political activities, including protests or demonstrations.

This has raised concerns about freedom of expression and the extent to which the U.S. government can limit students’ rights based on their political or ideological beliefs.

The Importance of Staying Informed About Visa Status

International students should always be vigilant about their visa status, especially given the current political environment.

A student’s visa status is tracked through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which records important details such as enrollment, attendance, and legal status.

The Trump administration’s push to monitor and revoke visas for minor infractions has made it imperative for students to stay on top of their SEVIS records.

Here are key steps to maintain your visa status:

1. Regularly Check SEVIS Records: Students should frequently check their SEVIS records to ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date. Any discrepancies can lead to complications with immigration status.

2. Avoid Procrastination on Visa Renewals: Never wait until the last minute to renew your visa. Visa renewal lapses could lead to issues with your legal status, and staying in the U.S. beyond your visa’s expiration date can result in severe consequences, including deportation.

3. Contact Your Designated School Official (DSO): If you plan to change your address, program of study, or any other critical information, it’s essential to update your SEVIS record immediately and inform your DSO to avoid violations that could jeopardize your status.

Legal Rights and Resources for International Students

Despite the fears of deportation and legal challenges, international students still retain several legal rights under U.S. law. These rights include:

• 🎓Due Process: International students are entitled to due process, meaning they must be given fair notice and an opportunity to challenge any decision regarding their immigration status.

• 🎓Right to Remain Silent: If confronted by immigration officials, international students have the right to remain silent and should not be forced to answer questions regarding their immigration status without legal counsel present.

• 🎓Access to Legal Counsel: Students have the right to consult with an immigration attorney before signing any documents or agreeing to any actions that may affect their legal status.

Given the complex and evolving nature of immigration law, it is strongly advised that international students consult legal experts who can guide them through any potential challenges.

The Case of Rumeysa Ozturk: A Wake-Up Call

The case of Rumeysa Ozturk, a doctoral student at Tufts University, drew significant attention after she was arrested in March 2025 by ICE agents for allegedly engaging in activities supporting Hamas.

Ozturk, a Turkish national, had co-authored an opinion article criticizing Tufts’ response to the war in Gaza, which resulted in her detention for 45 days at an immigration facility in Louisiana.

Her case highlights the precarious nature of free speech for international students in the U.S. Judge William K. Sessions ruled that Ozturk’s arrest was unlawful, and there was no concrete evidence linking her to terrorist activities.

This case underscores the importance of international students knowing their rights and being aware that political expression—whether in support of a cause or in dissent—can sometimes be misconstrued as a national security threat.

The Role of Social Media: Exercise Caution

International students must exercise caution regarding what they share on social media.

While the First Amendment protects students, the U.S. government actively monitors social media activity for content deemed as “anti-American” or in support of “terrorist organizations.”

In this climate, political posts, protest activities, or content that is critical of U.S. foreign policy may be flagged by government agencies, leading to potential visa revocation or deportation.

Here’s what international students should keep in mind regarding social media:

• 🎓Avoid making posts that could be seen as inflammatory or critical of the U.S. government.

• 🎓Understand that social media can be closely monitored, and comments made online may be used against you in legal proceedings.

• 🎓If you’re unsure about the content of your posts, it’s wise to consult with an immigration attorney.

Common Risks for International Students: Traffic Violations and Minor Offenses

Traffic violations have become a significant concern for international students.

In April 2025, Felipe Zapata Velásquez, a 27-year-old student from Colombia attending the University of Florida, was deported after being arrested for driving with a suspended license.

Similarly, Priya Saxena, a doctoral student from India, had her visa revoked following a traffic infraction.

While these may seem like minor offenses, interactions with law enforcement—especially for international students—can escalate quickly, leading to severe immigration consequences.

International students should always be mindful of local traffic laws and ensure they have the appropriate documentation when driving.

What to Do if You Are Detained by ICE

In the unfortunate event that you are detained by ICE, there are specific steps you should take to protect your rights:

• 🎓Ask for Identification: Always ask officers to identify themselves and request to see their badge if they are not clearly marked as ICE agents.

• 🎓Remain Calm: It is crucial to remain calm and not resist. Comply with what the officers ask, but do not sign anything without consulting an attorney.

• 🎓Contact Your Attorney: Have an immigration lawyer’s contact information readily available. If you are detained, your lawyer should be informed immediately.

Final Thoughts: Navigating the U.S. Immigration System as an International Student

For international students in the U.S., understanding their rights and responsibilities is more critical than ever.

Given the current political climate, it is essential for students to stay informed about their visa status, be mindful of their actions both on and off-campus, and seek legal counsel if they face any challenges with immigration authorities.

Although the landscape for international students has become increasingly difficult, they still have legal protections and resources available to help navigate these turbulent times.

By being proactive, vigilant, and informed, international students can continue to thrive academically and contribute to the diverse fabric of U.S. campuses.