Trump administration tightens visa rules for foreign students - BBC
The Trump administration is implementing stricter visa rules for foreign students, including a four-year limit on stays and restricted transfer capabilities. Officials state the policy aims to combat visa abuse, while critics argue it is unnecessary and harmful to higher education.
Why it matters
These changes significantly impact international student enrollment and research output in U.S. universities, particularly in STEM fields.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Kwasi Gyamfi Asiedu Getty Images Critics called the new rules "misguided and unnecessary" The Trump administration has given final notice of plans to implement stricter rules on foreign students, including preventing them from staying in the US for more than four years unless they get permission from the federal government.
The ability to switch programmes and transfer between universities and colleges will also be restricted. Until now, higher education institutions had the power to grant visa extensions.
The policy, which comes into effect in September, "combats rampant visa abuse, and strengthens national security through regular vetting", the Department of Homeland Security said.
The Association of International Educators described the new rules as "misguided and unnecessary".
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