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Visa Revocations Ripple Across Boston's Higher Education Institutions
2025-04-08

A growing concern is spreading through the academic community in Boston as numerous institutions report instances of student visa revocations by the federal government. Berklee College of Music has confirmed that three of its students have had their visas terminated, with no clear explanation provided by authorities. This action aligns with a broader trend affecting several universities and colleges across Massachusetts. The situation remains shrouded in mystery, leaving affected students and institutions grappling for answers while prioritizing support for those impacted.

In recent developments, multiple higher education establishments in Massachusetts have reported similar incidents involving the revocation of student visas. Among these are Tufts University, Harvard University, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and Boston University. Each institution has expressed bewilderment over the sudden terminations without prior notice or detailed reasoning. For instance, at Tufts, a doctoral student was arrested, allegedly linked to an op-ed she co-authored supporting Palestinian rights, leading to her visa being revoked on the same day.

At Harvard University, three students and two recent graduates faced visa cancellations discovered during routine record checks. The university promptly offered legal assistance but could not disclose specifics regarding the reasons behind the revocations. Meanwhile, UMass Amherst revealed that five international students experienced visa terminations, emphasizing that these actions were unilateral decisions made by the federal administration.

Boston University acknowledged cases of visa revocations among its student body, though it refrained from providing exact numbers. The university swiftly informed affected individuals, guiding them toward appropriate immigration resources. Similarly, Emerson College reported one student status revocation, underscoring the importance of respecting the individual’s privacy amid this challenging period.

Northeastern University also joined the list of affected institutions, confirming that some students and recent graduates received notifications about their visa cancellations. Despite these reports, Northeastern emphasized having no evidence linking the revocations to political advocacy or speech.

This wave of visa terminations underscores the uncertainty facing international students studying in the United States. Educational institutions across Massachusetts continue to navigate this complex situation, offering support to impacted students while seeking clarity from federal authorities. As more details emerge, the collective response highlights resilience and solidarity within the academic community.

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