The Trump administration has taken another step to limit international students in the United States, threatening action against Chinese nationals in particular.
On Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States will “aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students.” About 277,000 Chinese nationals studied in the U.S. during the 2023 to 2024 school year.
The vague statement goes on to explain that this includes individuals connected to the Chinese Communist Party or choosing to study in “critical fields”—whatever he decides that means.
Rubio also states that future Chinese applicants, including those from Hong Kong, will face updated student visa criteria “to enhance scrutiny.” The Departments of State and Homeland Security will work together on these aggressive actions.
Fast Company reached out to the State Department for additional details.
Vague statement immediately reverberates
Incoming Chinese students are now scrambling to find a solution. According to Reuters, those who have yet to procure a student visa are scouring for any available appointments, considering deferring their acceptance, or turning to schools in more accessible countries.
The announcement follows another blow to international students this week.
On Tuesday, the Trump administration reportedly told embassies around the world not to schedule any new interviews for student visa applications until it could determine a social media vetting plan. The order came through a cable signed by Rubio, viewed and first reported by Politico. Once again, Rubio provided no clear guidance on how this vetting will occur or the impact on international students set to begin classes this fall.