US universities urge Indian students to return before Trump’s inauguration amid travel ban concerns
PTC Web Desk: As Donald Trump prepares to assume office as the 47th President of the United States in January, uncertainty looms over Indian students and professionals pursuing studies or employment in the country. Concerns about potential travel bans have prompted several prominent American universities to issue travel advisories, urging international students to return to the US before the inauguration.
President-elect Donald Trump, who will take the oath on January 20, has announced plans to enact significant executive orders targeting immigration and economic policies on his first day in office. This announcement has reignited fears of disruptions reminiscent of his 2017 term, during which nationals from seven predominantly Muslim countries faced immediate travel bans.
The University of Massachusetts, Amherst, has issued a detailed advisory recommending that international students and staff return before January 20. "Given that a new presidential administration can implement policies on its first day in office, and reflecting on the travel bans in 2017, this advisory is issued out of caution," the university stated.
Similarly, Wesleyan University’s Office of International Student Affairs (OISA) has provided guidance, emphasising the importance of being physically present in the US before the inauguration. According to Wesleyan’s college newspaper, The Wesleyan Argus, the office’s email advised, "The safest approach to avoid potential difficulties in re-entering the US is to be in the country on January 19 and the days following."
David Elwell, Associate Dean at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has also urged international students to carefully review their travel plans. Highlighting the potential for delays in visa processing and the risks of being outside the country during policy transitions, he stated, "Each election brings potential changes to policies, regulations, and legislation that may affect higher education and immigration matters."
Indian students, in particular, recall the impact of Trump’s 2017 executive order, which led to widespread protests and affected thousands of students and professionals. The ban raised serious concerns about the inclusivity and fairness of US immigration policies.
To address these concerns, universities are actively supporting their international students. Yale University’s Office of International Students and Scholars recently hosted a webinar to discuss possible immigration policy changes and to reassure students. Several other institutions are exploring legal options to challenge any disruptive policies introduced by the Trump administration.
The US remains a top destination for Indian students seeking higher education. India surpassed China in 2023/2024 as the leading country of origin for international students in the US. According to the Open Doors 2024 Report on International Educational Exchange, 331,602 Indian students were enrolled in American institutions, marking a 23% increase from the previous year. This group now forms a vital part of the US academic ecosystem, contributing significantly to both education and research sectors.
India’s Response
While the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not issued an official advisory, it has acknowledged the situation. Indian nationals in the US have been advised to stay informed about any changes in travel regulations or immigration policies.
- With inputs from agencies
