USC offers legal resources for international students as visas get revoked nationwide
The released frequently asked questions page emphasized the University’s support resources.
By JUSTIN HA & ZACHARY WHALEN
In response to international students across the United States getting their visas revoked and their Student and Exchange Visitor Information System records being terminated, the University released a frequently-asked-questions page regarding record termination Monday night.
“Our international students and scholars are valued members of the Trojan Family,” the University wrote in an announcement about the resource page. “Please take advantage of the university’s support resources and, if you have questions regarding your particular situation, please contact an [Office of International Services] advisor.”
On Sunday, UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk announced that 12 UCLA students had their visas terminated: six current students and six former students who are part of an Optional Practical Training program. In the announcement, Frenk wrote the terminations were due to “violations of the terms of the individuals’ visa programs.”
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The Department of Homeland Security uses SEVIS records to maintain information on nonimmigrant students and their dependents. A visa allows a citizen of a foreign country to enter the U.S.
The University’s Q&A section states that students who have been notified that their visa has been revoked or their SEVIS record has been terminated should contact the Office of International Services and consult an immigration attorney.
According to the University, the Gould Immigrant Legal Assistance Center provides confidential legal consultations and referrals to community members with questions about their legal status or rights under immigration laws.
The Q&A section also stated that Niels Frenzen, director of the USC Gould School of Law Immigration Clinic, is the designated point of contact for any student or employee who could be at risk of being taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The University also encouraged students and employees to review their rights through the resources provided by the ILAC.
The resource page includes the University protocol regarding immigration enforcement action, including student record policy, legal access requests and government subpoenas.
The University wrote it only shares student and employee records with immigration agencies when it is legally required.
