STORRS, CT — The University of Connecticut confirmed Tuesday that 13 international students—12 currently enrolled and one recent graduate—have had their student visa records terminated, prompting swift internal response and coordination with legal and academic support services.
The disruption was first revealed through internal audits of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), with no prior notice from federal authorities.
University officials emphasized that there is no evidence to suggest the terminations were linked to political speech or affiliation.
“For an international student, losing one’s SEVIS status is devastating, particularly with only a few weeks remaining in the semester,” UConn leadership stated in a campus-wide message.
The university has connected the affected students with one another and is working closely with the Dean of Students Office and The Graduate School to provide academic triage.
Legal options are being explored, and UConn is organizing additional immigration Q&A sessions led by outside legal counsel.
The impacted students were made aware of their status change through audits rather than government notification. “The university has not received any communication from the federal government regarding these actions,” the update said.
Two upcoming Q&A sessions for international students and scholars will be held:
- Tuesday, April 22, 4:30–5:30 p.m. – for graduate students and visiting scholars
- Friday, April 25, 4:00–5:00 p.m. – for undergraduates, exchange students, and UCAELI students
In a joint message, UConn’s senior leadership urged the campus community to show compassion. “This is a very difficult and stressful time for our international students, faculty, and staff,” the statement read. “Even if just to offer a kind word, please reach out to the international classmates and colleagues you know.”
UConn has directed those impacted to International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) for travel guidance and individual advising. Additional resources remain available through the Dean of Students Office, Human Resources, and the International Office at UConn Health.
The university, which describes itself as both a Connecticut institution and a global one, affirmed its ongoing commitment to its international community amid a volatile immigration landscape.
