Update on SEVIS terminations and support for international students

April, 7, 2025

Dear International Students and Scholars,

Recently, we have learned that at least three people on Penn-sponsored student visas have had their SEVIS records terminated. This means their immigration status has been deactivated in the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Notifications were sent through the Department of Homeland Security’s automated systems.

AT THIS TIME, IT APPEARS THAT THESE TERMINATIONS ARE RELATED TO IMMIGRATION STATUS VIOLATIONS AND NOT CONNECTED TO THE 2024 CAMPUS PROTESTS. ICE agents have NOT been present on campus in connection with these cases.

The University is assisting those impacted with resources and guidance.

We are also aware of reports of encounters with ICE agents at Penn and additional visa revocations. We want to reassure the community that we are monitoring and investigating all reports and providing appropriate support to people when these incidents arise.

This is an extremely unsettling time for international students and scholars at Penn and in the United States. Know that we will make every effort to provide you with timely guidance about recent immigration policy changes.

In the meantime, remember:

 1) ISSS is monitoring SEVIS system updates and will notify you if your record is deactivated and help you determine next steps in conjunction with your home school and other relevant offices. An FAQ page is currently being developed and will be available at this link: https://global.upenn.edu/isss/news-articles/sevis-termination-faq/

 2) If you are contacted by or encounter immigration officials or law enforcement on campus you should notify the Division of Public Safety at 215-573-3333 immediately.

For any other questions, please contact Rudie Altamirano, ISSS Executive Director at rudiea@upenn.edu.

Penn deeply values its international community and remains dedicated to fostering an environment where students and scholars from around the world can thrive.

Sincerely,
Ezekiel J. Emanuel, Vice Provost for Global Initiatives
Karu Kozuma, Vice Provost for University Life