US Universities Advise Students to Return Before Trump Inauguration: What You Need to Know?

As Donald Trump’s January 20, 2025, inauguration approaches, over a dozen prominent US universities have issued advisories urging international students to return to campus early. This unusual move reflects concerns about potential immigration policy shifts under the new administration.

Why the Urgency?

During Trump’s first term, his administration introduced a travel ban targeting several Muslim-majority countries. This caused chaos at airports, leaving thousands stranded. Although President Biden reversed the ban in 2021, Trump has pledged to reinstate and expand it if reelected. Universities fear swift executive orders might affect visa issuance, travel, or student reentry.

Also Read: Study Abroad: India Becomes the Top Source of International Students in the U.S. After 15 Years

Universities Issuing Advisories

Here is a list of institutions urging students to return early:

University	Location
Harvard University	Cambridge, Massachusetts
Brown University	Providence, Rhode Island
Northeastern University	Boston, Massachusetts
MIT	Cambridge, Massachusetts
Johns Hopkins University	Baltimore, Maryland
University of Southern California (USC)	Los Angeles, California
Cornell University	Ithaca, New York
Wesleyan University	Middletown, Connecticut
University of California, Berkeley	Berkeley, California
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	Los Angeles, California
Yale University	New Haven, Connecticut
UMass Amherst	Amherst, Massachusetts

Advisory Highlights

Cornell University has urged international students, especially those from countries impacted by the 2017 travel ban, to return before January 21. UMass Amherst and Wesleyan University recommend staying in the US during the transition to avoid disruptions.

MIT’s advisory mentions possible executive orders affecting visa processing and embassy operations. USC has emphasized returning at least a week early to minimize risks from sudden policy changes.

Concerns Among Students and Experts

Trump’s 2017 travel ban denied over 40,000 visa applications, targeting seven Muslim-majority nations and later expanding to 15 countries. The policy’s sudden implementation led to confusion and delays. Universities aim to prevent a repeat scenario.

While many students appreciate the proactive measures, reactions remain mixed:

• Anxiety: Hanako (@hanako049924187) tweeted, “It’s a scary time… US universities urge international students to return to campus before Trump inauguration.”
• Skepticism: Rahul Gupta (@rahul_mayfair) questioned the urgency, saying, “Does the educated elite truly believe Trump is so unpredictable as to jeopardize the status of existing international students?”
• Nationalist Critique: DG (@DeSantis_Girl) argued, “American universities should prioritize Americans over international students.”

Practical Tips for Students

International students are advised to:

1. Prepare Documents: Carry proof of funding, enrollment certificates, and up-to-date visas.
2. Stay Updated: Monitor official university communications and government announcements.
3. Plan Ahead: Expect delays in immigration processing and plan accordingly.

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With potential changes looming, these advisories serve as a precaution to protect international students. Universities aim to minimize disruptions, ensuring students can continue their education uninterrupted.

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