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The changes to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on July 6 are unjust and irresponsible. The ICE regulations require international students to return home, if their entire academic schedule is online. The regulation threatens to disrupt international students’ access to academic programs and residential experience, and forces some students to travel home regardless of the conditions in their native countries.
In fall of 2019, SUNY Geneseo hosted 72 international students from 23 countries. We are committed to providing all of our students with a safe and secure educational environment that promotes scholarly and personal growth. Our campus and broader community is enriched by the presence of students from various backgrounds, and we will support our admitted students' access to a Geneseo education.
What We Are Doing:
We have reached out directly to every current and new international student at Geneseo. We have provided step-by-step guidance, including offering individual meetings and webinars designed to keep our international students informed of the situation.
Students who take a mix of in-person and online classes will continue to qualify for F1 student visas under the new government rules. Under this policy, international students will be allowed to remain in the United States. The College, led by the Provost’s Office, is working around the clock to ensure that we are ready to welcome all of our students this fall.
What You Can Do:
Collective action is essential. We encourage you to reach out to your Congressional representatives to express your concerns. We must all work together to push for a just solution that protects all our students.