The U.S. State Department has confirmed that over 6,000 foreign student visas have been revoked in 2025 under the administration of President Donald Trump. Officials said the revocations were linked to a range of infractions, from overstaying visa limits to criminal offenses and alleged ties to terrorism.
More Than 6,000 Student Visas Revoked in 2025
According to State Department figures, around 4,000 cases were connected to crimes such as assault, burglary, and driving under the influence. An estimated 200 to 300 visa revocations were tied to alleged “support for terrorism.”
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The move comes as part of President Trump’s broader push to tighten immigration laws. In January 2025, Trump signed several executive orders aimed at reinforcing control over foreign nationals entering the United States.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has taken a strong stance on immigration enforcement, defended the policy, stating that a student visa is a privilege, not a constitutional right.
Targeting International Students and Protests
In addition to cracking down on criminal violations, officials have also scrutinized foreign students involved in protests, particularly demonstrations against the ongoing war in Gaza. The State Department has argued that some protests included elements of antisemitism and support for terrorist groups.
In June 2025, U.S. embassies and consulates were instructed to conduct more thorough background checks on visa applicants, including reviewing social media profiles to detect “hostile attitudes” toward the United States, its culture, and institutions.
Impact on Global Students
The revocation of thousands of visas has raised concerns among international students and universities. Many fear that the crackdown could discourage talented students from pursuing studies in the United States, which has long been a top destination for higher education.
Critics argue that lumping peaceful student protesters with criminal offenders and suspected extremists risks creating a climate of fear and discrimination.
Broader Context
The Trump administration has consistently emphasized national security and immigration enforcement as top priorities. The recent wave of visa cancellations highlights how student mobility and academic exchange are increasingly entangled in U.S. domestic politics.
For students already in the United States, the decision means abrupt disruption of their academic and personal lives, while those abroad now face higher barriers to entry.
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