Visa Crisis Hits UW-Madison: Dozens of International Students Ordered to Leave the U.S.
The sun shines on Bascom Hill on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021, at UW-Madison in Madison, Wis. Angela Major/WPR
⚠️ Sudden Visa Terminations Cause Shockwaves Across Wisconsin Campuses
In a stunning development, more than two dozen international students and alumni tied to the University of Wisconsin-Madison have had their U.S. visas abruptly revoked, forcing them to leave the country immediately—without any grace period.
🔍 “Six active student visas and seven alumni employment extensions were terminated,” the university confirmed Monday.
🌐 More Universities Affected Statewide
Mark Pitsch, spokesperson for the Universities of Wisconsin system, revealed that additional visa terminations have occurred beyond UW-Madison.
🗣️ “We are aware of visa terminations other than those described at UW-Madison. Resources for students are available through our universities,” said Pitsch.
By Tuesday, 14 more students or alumni from other UW campuses were confirmed to be affected.
❓ No Prior Warning or Clear Reasoning
UW-Madison emphasized that it was not involved in the visa revocations and had no prior knowledge of the federal government’s decision.
🧾 “While terminations are not uncommon, we are seeing a significant spike in both volume and frequency,” said a university spokesperson.
The school has no evidence that the actions were tied to free speech or political activity, but acknowledged the lack of transparency surrounding the rationale.
🇺🇸 Rubio’s Statement Escalates Tensions
On March 27, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that over 300 student visas had been revoked nationwide.
🔥 “These students are lunatics… they come here not just to study, but to vandalize, harass, and create chaos,” Rubio claimed.
His remarks have sparked backlash and concern over whether political motivations are behind the crackdown.
🤝 University Offers Support, Legal Guidance
UW-Madison’s International Student Services (ISS) has contacted the impacted individuals, offering advice, resources, and legal support.
💬 “We’re working to understand what led to these terminations and to support our students and scholars during this difficult time,” the university said.
ISS Director Samantha McCabe added that students are increasingly worried about visa security, federal policy changes, and potential travel restrictions.
📊 International Students: Vital to Campus Life and Budget
In Fall 2024, nearly 8,000 international students were enrolled at UW-Madison—about 50% graduate and 50% undergraduate. Across the state, the Universities of Wisconsin educate more than 10,000 students from 136+ countries.
🎓 These students pay approximately $15,000 more per semester than in-state residents, contributing significantly to research efforts and campus diversity.
✊ Graduate Union Demands Action, Plans Campus Rally
The Graduate Worker Union of UW-Madison is pushing for accountability. Member Bennett McIntosh believes the revocations are retaliatory.
🗣️ “If these visa revocations are anything like what we’ve seen across the country, they’re arbitrary, pretextual, and often retaliation for protected speech.”
The union is urging the university to assist students in appealing the decisions and to enable remote study or work options while legal challenges proceed.
📅 A campus rally is scheduled for April 17 to demand answers and support affected students.
📈 Nationwide Trend: Over 200 Students Affected at 50+ Universities
According to Inside Higher Ed, as of April 7, at least 200 international students and recent graduates have had their legal status changed or revoked at over 50 institutions nationwide.
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