CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Center for International Education at Southern Illinois University is offering guidance to student following the Friday announcement that one international student's visa was revoked.
SIU Director of Communications Kim Rendfeld confirmed Friday that the student was notified their visa had been revoked, and said the university would not release any additional information regarding the student.
The Monday email, addressed to international students, recommended students keep immigration documents with them at all times, carry proof of enrollment at SIU, update emergency contacts, and maintain immigration status and abide by all U.S. laws. Students should also closely monitor email accounts for any communications about student visas.
In addition, the email recommended international students "use caution on social media" and "exercise discretion when participating in political demonstrations or protests."
Regarding international travel, the university advises students to proceed with caution and avoid any unnecessary travel. The email noted that international travel may impact students' ability to return to the U.S. amid possible policy changes or sudden travel bans.
The email also said the CIE office will begin a support group for international students starting Wednesday, April 2. The group will meet from noon to 1 p.m. weekly at the CIE office while classes are in session.
Rendfeld said Monday that the email is all the information SIU would provide.
The full email text is below:
Subject: Important Guidance for International Students – Please Read
Dear International Students,
We understand that recent news may be unsettling, and we want to reassure you that our office is here to support you. While we do not wish to cause alarm, we are sharing the following guidance to help you stay informed, prepared, and protected during this time.
We encourage you to take the following precautions:
- Carry photocopies of your immigration documents with you at all times, including:
- Form I-20 or DS-2019
- Passport
- U.S. visa
- I-94 record
- Carry proof of current enrollment at SIU, such as a class schedule from Saluki Net or enrollment verification
- Keep records of all U.S. residences where you have lived
- Ensure your contact information is up to date, including your local U.S. address and phone number in Saluki Net
- Update your emergency contacts (both inside and outside the U.S.) with SIU, so we have the most accurate information in case of emergency
- Use caution on social media and be mindful of how posts may be perceived, especially when discussing sensitive topics
- Exercise discretion when participating in political demonstrations or protests — while peaceful protest is a right, such activity can sometimes be misinterpreted and may carry risks to your immigration status
- Due to recent reports of visa revocations, we strongly recommend that you closely monitor the email address you used when applying for your U.S. student visa. The U.S. Department of State may send important communications to that account
- Maintain your immigration status and abide by all U.S. laws
If you are planning international travel, please proceed with caution. We advise against international travel unless necessary. Travel abroad may carry risks that could impact your ability to return to the U.S., particularly as international students are facing increased scrutiny at ports of entry. In addition, international travel may be affected by sudden travel bans or policy changes, which could prevent reentry into the U.S. for an unknown period of time.
If you must travel internationally:
- Ensure that all immigration documents are valid and unexpired
- Complete the ISSS Travel Form
- Obtain a travel signature on your Form I-20 or DS-2019
- Carry your original immigration documents (not just photocopies) while traveling
- Carry proof of enrollment
- Carry proof of financial resources
If you would like to discuss your travel plans, please email us at isss@siu.edu.
We also encourage you to explore the SIU Community of Care initiative, which offers a wide range of support resources for students navigating difficult or uncertain times:
🔗 https://siu.edu/community-of-care/
International Support Group
Beginning Wednesday, April 2, the International Support Group will meet weekly from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at the Center for International Education (CIE) office. Meetings will take place every week when classes are in session. This group provides a safe and supportive space for international students to discuss challenges, concerns, and experiences with others.
For additional information, please see the attached flyer or contact our office.
Additional Resources
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
- Know Your Rights
- Immigrants’ Rights
- What to Do If Stopped by Police or ICE – Video
- Know Your Rights: Immigration Enforcement and Warrants – ACLU of Northern California
American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
- Know Your Rights if ICE Visits (in English, Haitian Creole, Chinese, Arabic, Spanish and Portuguese)
Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC)
National Immigration Law Center (NILC)
NPR Report
If you have questions or would like to discuss your specific situation, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are here for you and will continue to closely monitor the situation and share updates as more information becomes available from reliable sources. Your safety, well-being, and ability to pursue your education remain our top priorities.
Sincerely,
TINA SICKINGER, PDSO/RO
Director of International Student & Scholar Services
CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION
MAIL CODE 4333
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
425 CLOCKTOWER DR RM 38
CARBONDALE, ILLINOIS 62901
tschiff@siu.edu
P: 618.453.4559
