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Penn State Student Visas Revoked Amid Nationwide Crackdown

Editor’s note: If you’re a Penn State student and have had your visa revoked, we want to hear from you. Reach out to [email protected], [email protected], and [email protected].

Penn State students have had their visas revoked, according to a letter sent on April 3 from Sabine Klarh, the interim vice provost for Penn State Global. The move comes as the Trump administration has cracked down on student visa holders nationwide in recent weeks, and universities across the country have reported similar instances.

“We want you to know that international students, scholars, and faculty at Penn State are valued members of our campus community,” Klahr wrote. “Penn State is committed to supporting and assisting you. Recently, some incidents have occurred around the country that are concerning to many in our community, particularly our international students, faculty, and staff.

“The university is aware that some international students have had their lawful status in the U.S. terminated. We want to remind you of the guidance and resources that are currently available to you while we continue to monitor evolving federal actions and policies related to immigration and international travel, particularly as they pertain to the Penn State community.”

Klahr’s letter also provided resources for Penn State students whose immigration status could come into question, which folks can find here.

Across Pennsylvania, two students and five recent grads from Carnegie Mellon had their visas revoked, and U.S. Senator John Fetterman said his office was looking into the incidents.

Nationwide, the Trump administration has canceled the F-1 and J-1 student visas of many international students over various matters, ranging from activity in pro-Palestine protests and criminal infractions and traffic violations. In the case of South Sudanese students and their visa revocations, the administration simply said the South Sudanese government is taking advantage of the United States. The administration isn’t waiting for the end of spring semesters to end but is instead canceling visas with immediate effect.

Penn State University Police do not act as law enforcement officials and are guided not to ask about students’ immigration status. However, federal immigration officials are permitted on campus and can detain students who are on campus or in class.

Folks can find updates about Penn State’s guidance on immigration here.

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About the Author

Joe Lister

Joe, shockingly, was Onward State's managing editor from 2024-25. It was an honor. He's off employed doing journalism things, hopefully. If you want to complain about anything he's ever written, you can find him on Twitter (iamjoelister), email ([email protected]), or Signal (iamjoelister.93).

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