Several U.S. universities are advising international students to return to the U.S. before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, citing concerns about potential travel restrictions and visa policy changes. The University of Massachusetts Amherst, MIT, and Yale University have issued similar warnings, urging students to avoid potential disruptions caused by executive orders that could affect travel and reentry processes. These advisories were based on the uncertainty surrounding the new administration’s stance on immigration policies, which have historically affected international students, including past travel bans and visa restrictions during Trump’s first term.

Trump’s campaign has indicated plans to intensify immigration restrictions, which could present challenges for students navigating U.S. education and residency. Despite past declines in international student enrollment, recent data shows a significant rebound, with the 2023-2024 academic year seeing record-high international student numbers.

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