Spring 2025 FAQs

1. Why are visas being revoked and SEVIS records terminated? There appear to be two primary categories of students who have been affected by these actions.  The first are international students who allegedly have participated in pro-Palestinian or antisemitic protests or who have led student demonstrations on their campuses.  This seems to be primarily affecting the main leaders/organizers of large campus protests and in-person/online demonstrations. The second are students who have criminal records and arrests in the U.S because this is a violation of the rules of their visa.  
2. What is a SEVIS record termination? The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a database of international student records. If the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) terminates a student’s record, it will end the lawful status of a student. Students do not have access to SEVIS so Wheaton College Designated School Officials (DSOs) are monitoring all student statuses and will notify students if their SEVIS record is impacted. If you have not received an email from your DSO about this, your status has not been impacted.  
3. What does it mean if a visa is revoked? If a student’s visa is revoked, the student can no longer use the visa to enter the U.S. even if its expiration date is in the future. The student may remain in the U.S. with an expired visa as long as they continue to hold valid SEVIS status. The Department of State typically notifies the visa holder when a visa is revoked by emailing the address associated with the original visa application. You can also check the status of your visa on this Visa Status Check portal. If you receive a phone call about this (or any other government benefit, such as your SSN, taxes, etc.) it is likely a scam and should be reported to your DSO immediately, prior to taking action.
4. What should I do if my visa is revoked or SEVIS record is terminated? If you receive notice that your visa is revoked, please inform your DSO who will check the status of your SEVIS record. If your DSO confirms your SEVIS status is terminated you must stop all employment and/or training (on-campus, CPT, OPT & STEM OPT) immediately since this means you have lost employment authorization. If your SEVIS status is terminated, your DSO will be ready to discuss enrollment options. Since remaining in the U.S. without lawful immigration status could result in consequences (fines, detention, removal, etc.) and impact future visa applications, if this happens to you, we would recommend that you consult with an immigration attorney.  
5. What can I do if questioned by ICE or other law enforcement officers about my visa status? What else can I be doing now? Students can prepare by knowing their rights in this situation, under the U.S. Constitution. Remember, the best thing you can do in this season—apart from prayer—is to continue complying with all requirements related to your visa and checking your Wheaton email address daily. If you believe your visa or status may be targeted, or have additional questions about your situation, please schedule a meeting with your DSO or consult with an immigration attorney.  
6. What documentation should F-1 visa students carry with them in the U.S.? You are required to carry “evidence of registration” documents at all times. This means you should always have a color copy of your Form I-94, which shows your last entry into the U.S. and your visa status. You can get your most recent I-94 here. When off campus, we recommend you always carry a color copy of your passport, I-20 and I-94. Students on approved OPT should also carry their EAD.  We do not recommend that your carry your physical passport with you unless you are traveling. 
7. What is Wheaton College doing about these federal actions? Your DSO team is in regular contact with Wheaton College leadership to ensure we can offer you informed, accurate, and caring support in this difficult season of regular visa updates/announcements. You are a valued member of this community, and we care deeply about supporting your well-being and providing advice specific to your visa status. Wheaton College leadership is also partnering with associations and other institutions to advocate on your behalf and seek additional information from the Department of Homeland Security to ensure the College serves you well.  
8. What additional campus resources are available to F-1 visa students? As a valued member of this community, you are always welcome to utilize Student Wellness and Spiritual Care resources and schedule a meeting with your DSO about these or other concerns.