University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) officials announced on Thursday that the federal government has revoked visas for 27 international students. According to Open Doors, UTA has the third-largest international student population in Texas.
A university spokesperson stated, “The University of Texas at Arlington is aware that the visa status of 27 international students has unexpectedly changed in recent days. UTA officials are reaching out to the affected students to provide necessary information and support according to their circumstances.”
UTA President Jennifer Cowley informed the campus community in a letter that the university does not have details regarding the decisions behind the visa revocations. She stated, “We are committed to supporting our international student community and ensuring they receive the necessary assistance.”
Over the past few days, more than 100 international students across Texas have been informed that their visas have been revoked or their immigration status has been terminated in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
The University of North Texas (UNT) reported that 27 students were affected, while the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) confirmed 19 affected students. According to media reports, nearly 90,000 international students are enrolled in Texas.
It remains unclear on what basis the government selected students for visa revocation. However, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on Wednesday that it has begun monitoring international students’ social media for “antisemitic” views.
This announcement comes at a time when the Trump administration has intensified efforts to deport individuals who participated in pro-Palestine protests on college campuses last year, including some who hold legal permanent residency in the U.S.
According to UTA officials, no law enforcement agencies have contacted the university or reported any actions on campus. President Cowley reminded students of the university’s guidance on how students, faculty, and staff should respond if approached by immigration officers.
It has been learned that UTA’s Office of International Education is in direct contact with all affected students.
