US Colleges Urge Foreign Students to Rush Back Before Trump’s Inauguration – What’s Behind the Urgency

Several American universities have advised international students and staff to reconsider travel plans and return to the US before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Concerns Over Immigration Policies Spark Advisories

The advisories stem from concerns about potential travel bans and immigration policy changes, as Trump has announced plans to sign executive orders on immigration and the economy on his first day in office.

International students, particularly from India and China, form a significant portion of the US higher education community. According to the Open Doors 2024 Report on International Educational Exchange, India surpassed China as the leading country of origin for international students, with 331,602 students in 2023/24, a 23% increase from the prior year. However, the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s immigration policies has caused widespread apprehension.

University Advisories and Precautionary Measures

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Associate Dean David Elwell urged students to evaluate their winter travel plans, emphasizing potential delays in visa processing due to administrative transitions. “New executive orders under the incoming administration could impact travel and visa statuses,” Elwell warned, advising students to have contingency plans in case of delays at US embassies or consulates.

Similarly, the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, issued a recommendation urging its international community to return to the US before the inauguration. The advisory, while not mandatory, cited the possibility of disruptions based on past travel bans during Trump’s first term in 2017, which affected nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries and caused widespread chaos.

Wesleyan University echoed similar concerns. In an email to F-1 visa students, the university emphasized the importance of being in the US by January 19 to avoid potential difficulties re-entering the country. Wesleyan’s Office of International Student Affairs expressed apprehension over sweeping policy changes that could impact both international and undocumented students.

Historical Context Heightens Worries

The concerns stem from Trump’s history with restrictive immigration policies. In January 2017, just days into his presidency, Trump signed an executive order banning nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries—causing significant disruptions and outrage. Universities fear similar measures could be enacted in 2025, potentially targeting additional regions or groups. US universities have long relied on a robust influx of international students, with over half coming from India and China. The uncertainty surrounding potential travel bans raises concerns about the continuity of academic programs and the well-being of affected students.

Final Thoughts

As Trump’s inauguration approaches, universities are taking preemptive measures to safeguard their international communities.

While no concrete policies have yet been announced, the lingering memory of past travel bans and the unpredictability of new measures underscore the need for vigilance. Students and staff are urged to exercise caution, remain informed, and prioritize their ability to stay in the US during this transitional period.