Dear UC Davis International Students,

Yesterday (July 14), the University of California Office of the President confirmed that the Trump administration has canceled its plans to adopt and enforce new Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) guidelines and related FAQs for fall 2020, which were announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on July 6 and July 7, respectively. At this time, we are analyzing what this reversal means to UC Davis international students, but we are hopeful that this decision not to move forward with the guidelines adds more stability as you plan for fall. We remain committed to supporting you and will update this webpage with guidance as soon as we have more information to share. 

We realize the stress the announcement of the new Homeland Security guidelines caused during an already challenging time in the world, on top of an already dynamic spring quarter. Travel restrictions and closures of embassies and consulates due to the COVID-19 pandemic have added to these challenges. We recognize the significant hard work and sacrifice you have put in these past few months at UC Davis. We also recognize that in particular, this last week has been filled with even more uncertainty and stress as you assessed your options within these new guidelines. You have persevered through so much. Please know we are empathetic to your concerns and we are committed to continued action as needed to support you.

We are still planning the webinar on Thursday (July 16) with immigration attorneys from Wolfsdorf Rosenthal LLP to help F-1 international students navigate this topic. We also ask international students to please continue to fill out the e-form Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) emailed to you on July 10 regarding your plans for fall 2020 (“Complete this required form immediately”). 

As you know, we in Global Affairs and throughout UC Davis and the UC system have been steadfast in our objection and opposition to these new Homeland Security guidelines proposed last week. Thank you for your patience and grace during such a challenging time. We also want to thank the many students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members who advocated in support of our international students and international community. 

Again, we are here for you and we look forward to sharing additional information regarding today’s reversal as soon as we know more. 

Sincerely,

Joanna Regulska
Vice Provost and Dean
Global Affairs

Wesley Young
Director of Services for International Students and Scholars
Global Affairs

Latest Services for International Students and Scholars Updates
 

• Understanding U.S. Department of Homeland Security Guidance for Fall 2020

More Related Updates
 

• Message of Support from UC Davis Provost and Vice Provost (July 10)

• UC Davis Statement: Homeland Security Guidelines ‘Cruel and Thoughtless’ (July 9)

• UC poised to sue federal government over new visa policy for international students (July 8)

• Statement from UC President Janet Napolitano on ICE announcement (July 7)

• UC Davis: UC, Campus Back International Students (July 7)

• Understanding U.S Department of Homeland Security Guidance for Fall 2020 (July 6)