Two more international students at Ohio State University say their visas have been revoked, bringing the total number of OSU students with revoked visas to seven.
Ohio State spokesman Ben Johnson on Tuesday confirmed the most recent revocations.
University President Ted Carter released a statement Tuesday to the OSU community that said in part, "I know these developments have created deep concern and uncertainty among many in our community. While we recognize that visa decisions are the authority of the U.S. government and Ohio State plays no role in these decisions, I share a strong desire for clarity around these actions. Ohio State, after all, has long been – and will continue to be – proud to welcome students from all over the world, who add greatly to the life of our campuses and community. International students, visiting scholars and staff enrich the Ohio State experience for all, and we are a stronger university for their presence and contributions."
Carter also said, "Caring for our students is our highest priority, and we have been in contact with all seven students to offer resources and support. Multiple offices across our university, including the Office of Academic Affairs, Legal Affairs, International Affairs, Student Life and Human Resources, are coordinating to best assist each student and provide the full scale of resources available to them."
Carter also said in the statement that university officials were not "formally notified" about the visa revocations by the government, and were not given a reason why the students' visas were revoked.
Johnson said the students remain in the United States and that the students, their attorneys and the university are considering next steps.
In a statement Saturday, the Ohio State chapter of the American Association of University Professors said: "We must stand up for all of our students. The federal government's targeting and treatment of international students is unacceptable. International students are core members of the Buckeye community, and we won’t be silent as they are scapegoated in this way."
Similar revocations have happened at other universities.
College officials worry the new approach will keep foreigners from wanting to study in the U.S.
The Associated Press reports that some students have been targeted over pro-Palestinian activism or criminal infractions.
