Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced Tuesday that it will rescind their July 7 directive banning international students from attending fully remote colleges.
The new edict would’ve forced international students to transfer to colleges offering in-person and hybrid classes or leave the country. Arizona State University President Michael Crow told KJZZ’s “The Show” that he never understood the motivation behind the proposal aside from controlling what educational opportunities colleges offer this fall.
“It was just poorly thought through, wrong-headed, and I’m glad that they have decided to pull back," he said.
University of Arizona President Robert C. Robbins just sent KJZZ this statement:
"We are pleased that the Trump administration rescinded this guidance and that international students will not have to choose between their education and their health and safety. This change appropriately recognizes our international students for their perseverance and determination to complete their degree plans. We are very pleased to welcome international students back to the University of Arizona, and we are committed to ensuring they are treated equitably," Robbins said.
Northern Arizona University President Rita Cheng also reacted to the announcement in a statement to KJZZ.
"We are pleased that the administration has rescinded this rule change, which would have limited NAU’s ability to adapt to the changing circumstances of the pandemic in ways that are beneficial to our entire community," she said. "Having international relationships is more important than ever, and we appreciate the benefits these students and partnerships bring not only to our campus, but to the entire state of Arizona."
ASU, NAU and UA announced on Monday that had joined a federal lawsuit to fight the rule.
The reversal means international students can continue following previous guidance from ICE, which allowed them to participate in online courses or other alternative learning options and keep their immigration status.
