University Administrators, State and Federal Lawmakers, the U.S. Department of State, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:

We, the undersigned, call for the immediate reinstatement and protection of student visas for international students at the University of Connecticut (UConn) and across the United States.

International students are a vital part of our academic communities. They contribute to campus diversity, global dialogue, research, and innovation. Many pay full tuition, support local economies, and serve as bridges between cultures. Yet, recent visa denials, delays, and policy changes have created insurmountable obstacles for students seeking to study in the U.S. undermining our institutions’ values and international reputation.

We are deeply concerned about: 

• The cancellation or revocation of F-1 and J-1 visas due to shifting political or bureaucratic policies.
• Barriers to re-entry for students returning from family visits or participating in internships abroad.
• Lack of clarity or consistency in federal guidelines, creating fear and confusion for thousands of students.
• Loss of global talent to other countries offering more stable and welcoming educational environments.

We demand that:

• The U.S. government restore full access to student visas and create a clear, stable, and student-friendly visa process.
• Universities, including UConn, provide legal, financial, and administrative support for affected students.
• Congress pass legislation that protects international student status from being used as a political tool.
• Universities advocate collectively at the national level for federal reforms in student visa policies.

Education should never be constrained by borders, fear, or politics. The U.S. must remain a global leader in higher education and that starts with welcoming and protecting the students who choose to learn here.

We sign this petition to stand with our international classmates, friends, and scholars.