Ten international student visas have been terminated by the federal government, according to UC Santa Barbara media spokesperson Kiki Reyes, roughly three months after the Trump administration took office. The revocations come without warning and have affected dozens of California campuses.

Ten students and alum visas have been revoked by the federal government. Wesley Haver / Daily Nexus

In recent days, the federal government has begun terminating the F-1 visa records of international students across the nation with no advance notice,” Chancellor Henry T. Yang said in a message to the campus on April 8.

Reyes was unable to provide further information about the students’ visas.

At UC Santa Barbara, campus figures indicate there are 1,899 international students enrolled for the 2024-25 academic year, approximately 9% of the campus student body. 

“We understand that these developments may cause significant concern and anxiety for many members of our UC Santa Barbara community, especially for our international students, staff, and faculty. We reiterate our strong support for all of our international students,” Yang continued.

Across the University of California (UC), approximately 50 students and recent graduates’ visas have been revoked as of April 8, according to a statement that day from UC President Michael V. Drake. He said the government “has not coordinated with UC leaders on their decisions or provided advance notice,” but “has indicated in government databases that the terminations were due to violations of the terms of the individuals’ visa programs.” He added that the UC was unaware of any law enforcement on its campuses. 

“We continue to actively support our international students and faculty. Our chancellors and other campus leaders are closely monitoring the recent visa terminations and assessing the implications for the UC community and other people affected,” Drake said in the statement.

Yang encouraged students to contact the Office of International Studies & Scholars for assistance and guidance and for students to review the UC “Know Your Rights” card, which outlines legal protections and guidance on how to interact with law enforcement. Students whose studies may potentially be interrupted should reach out to the college advising office, he added. 

“At UC Santa Barbara, we are committed to fostering an environment where all members of our community feel safe, valued, and supported. We are closely tracking these federal actions, and will continue to advocate for the well-being of our students, faculty, and staff at every level of government,” Yang said. 

This is an ongoing story. The Nexus will update this article as more information becomes available.

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Lizzy Rager
Lizzy Rager (she/her) is the Lead News Editor for the 2024-25 school year. She can be reached at lizzyrager@dailynexus.com