Feds Rescind Online Study Restrictions for International Students
Posted on Wednesday, July 15, 2020The Trump administration has dropped its effort to require international students to leave the U.S. if their schools will offer only online instruction this fall. The move came after a number of universities filed suit to stop implementation of the rule. It took only two minutes in a Boston Federal District Courtroom for the opposing parties - Harvard and MIT on the one hand and the federal government on the other – to reach an agreement. As a result, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement will revert to the guidance issued in March, which allows international students to remain in the U.S. even if their college or university opts for online-only instruction due to health considerations.
The March advisories may be found at:
https://www.ice.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Document/2020/Coronavirus%20Guidance_3.13.20.pdf
Recent Immigration Blog Posts
-
New Public Charge Guidance: What Green Card Applicants and Sponsors Should Know Posted on Monday, September 7, 2026
Read moreBeginning September 18, 2026, USCIS will apply new guidance when determining whether certain applicants are likely to become a “public charge.” The guidance gives immigration officers broader discretion to examine an applicant’s financial circumstances, use of certain public benefits, health, employment prospects, and ability to support themselves in the United States.
-
Travel Advisories: Heavy Immigration Enforcement Posted on Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Read moreStepped up immigration enforcement means that all noncitizens are at greater risk of detention and deportation, especially when they travel. Therefore, it is important to know your risk factors, your rights, and your best methods for avoiding trouble.
-
Adjusting Status in the U.S. Under New Government Policy Posted on Thursday, May 28, 2026
Read moreRecent media coverage regarding the adjustment of status process has caused significant confusion, fear, and misinformation. Some reports have incorrectly suggested that it is no longer possible to obtain a green card through adjustment of status in the United States and that all applicants must now return to their home country for consular processing. That is simply not true.

