CINCINNATI — The Department of Homeland Security revoked the student visas for multiple international students at UC, the university's president said in a letter to campus Thursday afternoon.
UC President Neville G. Pinto said in his letter that the F-1 visas for "a small number" of international students on campus were revoked. Non-U.S. citizens must have an F-1 visa to study as an undergraduate or graduate at any U.S. university or college.
"While we are aware that this is happening at universities across the nation, we have not been contacted by authorities, nor have we been given specific reasons for these revocations," Pinto said.
Students WCPO 9 spoke with on campus say they are shocked about it all.
"When I read it I was pretty shocked they decided to do this -- it's not OK to revoke their studies here to help them with their education," said Stephanie Hernandez.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated last week that around 300 students nationwide have been impacted by the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, per a recent ABC News report.
"No one has a right to a visa," Rubio said. "These are things that we decide. We deny visas every day for all kinds of reasons all over the world. We deny visas because we think people might overstay. We deny visas because the country they come from has people that historically overstay. We deny visas every day, and we can revoke visas. If you have the power to deny, you have the power to revoke."
Our sister station in Denver reported Wednesday that at least nine international students had their visas revoked in the University of Colorado System.
"I felt very saddened that this came to the choice knowing that we are a really diverse place and have a lot of international students here", said Gabrielle Medez. "I think it makes it a little difficult for students to pick a college that represents them".
Pinto said UC representatives are in touch with the students impacted, saying "We are doing what we can to support them during this incredibly challenging time."
"I recognize this is deeply alarming news, and especially for members of our international community who are here to enrich their family," Pinto said.
The university president said international students who have any questions or concerns should reach out to International Services.
"I find it very interesting that a visa was revoked if it had already been accepted. I think that adds a lot of stress on students who are already taking big steps being in a different country, sometimes alone, and trying to gain experience," said Morgan Dailey.
An F-1 Visa allows students to legally enter the United States as a foreign national for academic study. These visas allow people to study at high schools, universities, seminaries, conservatories and any otherwise defined academic institution, including language training. These visas are considered temporary for the duration of the study.
