Biden Administration’s New Policy on Student Visas Sparks Concern.
The Biden administration recently reiterated its commitment to global development in a new report, but a recent policy change has raised concerns among educators and international students. The U.S. Strategy on Global Development, released by the White House, emphasizes the importance of investments in education. However, a recent update to student visa guidelines could undermine this goal.
In late August, as universities planned their study abroad programs for the academic year, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced a new restriction for F-1 student visas. The updated policy imposes a strict five-month limit on how long students can be outside the United States before they risk losing their visa. This is a significant change from previous guidelines, which did not specify a return time frame.
While many study abroad programs align with this five-month limit, it poses a problem for institutions like Minerva University in San Francisco. The university’s unique curriculum includes “global rotations,” where students spend time in Asia, Europe, and South America before returning to graduate in their fourth year. For over a decade, Minerva has been recognized as one of the most innovative universities globally, shaping future leaders and diplomats.
Starting next week, Minerva will have to fly 150 students from Berlin back to the U.S. to comply with the new policy. These students will then need to stay in the U.S. for an entire academic year before they can return abroad, disrupting their educational experience and potentially undermining the university’s model.
This policy shift not only impacts Minerva but could also restrict the flow of international talent into the U.S. and affect global educational partnerships. The change could also deter other institutions from adopting similar innovative models.
Mike Magee, President of Minerva University, is calling on Washington-based diplomats and members of Congress to address these issues. He suggests three adjustments to the policy:
1. Implement a grace period allowing students to return without losing their F-1 visas.
2. Extend the five-month absence limit to accommodate longer study abroad programs.
3. Develop long-term policies that acknowledge the value of international students to U.S. society and the economy.
The recent White House report highlights the U.S. commitment to global prosperity. By facilitating the movement of international scholars, the U.S. can support global education and benefit from the exchange of ideas and talent.
Mike Magee is the president of Minerva University, a nonprofit institution where students from over 100 countries complete a four-year global education program across four continents.
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