Arizona State Warns Intl Students: Stay in U.S. Till Degree Ends

• ASU advises international students to avoid travel until graduation due to tightened immigration rules.
• The move follows Michigan State’s guidance and rising concerns over new federal travel bans.
• Over 17,000 ASU international students may be affected, especially those needing travel for visas or academics.

Arizona State University (ASU) has issued updated recommendations suggesting that specific international students remain in the United States until they complete their degrees, following the lead of Michigan State University.

ABC15 reports that the university’s International Students and Scholars Center issued an email on June 6, urging students who are currently abroad to return by Monday, June 9. The advisory also advised students to avoid travel abroad until they complete their courses of study.

The specific number of students affected by this recommendation is hard to determine, but the effort represents a milestone for one of the largest colleges in the nation in regard to enrollment of international students. ASU has more than 17,000 international students, and only a few colleges in the country can match that.

The advisory has seen many responses to recent federal immigration policies, including the introduction of a new travel ban by the Trump administration. The policy imposes complete or partial entry limitations on citizens from almost 20 nations.

Michael Kintscher, president of the United Campus Workers of Arizona, stated that numerous students, particularly in technical and scientific disciplines, depend on international travel for professional necessities like conferences or certifications. Due to the new restrictions, such opportunities might now be at risk.

Kintscher noted that returning home for visa renewals is often necessary, adding another layer of uncertainty for students caught between their academic goals and immigration limitations.

"Students are observing what's going on and are great concern,” Kintscher told ABC15, highlighting fears that these developments might dissuade prospective students from seeking higher education in the U.S.

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In a statement, Arizona State University said it supports international students and is watching the evolving situation closely. The university said its International Students and Scholars Center remains a critical resource for students dealing with these difficult situations.

According to the Higher Ed Immigration Portal, more than 27,000 international students currently study in Arizona schools, many of whom will likely watch the situation with concern.