Key Takeaways
• Trump administration revoked F-1 visas from 1,800+ students at 280 U.S. colleges including seven Indiana universities in 2025.
• F-1 visa allows full-time study with limited work; post-graduation OPT offers up to 12 months work authorization.
• Legal challenges restored student statuses, but new visa review systems and scams pose ongoing risks for international students.
International Students in Indiana: Visa Types, Trump Administration Actions, and What Comes Next
International students play a vital role in Indiana’s academic community, bringing global perspectives and contributing to research, innovation, and campus life. However, recent actions by the Trump administration have created significant uncertainty for these students, especially those studying at Indiana’s leading universities. This guide provides a detailed overview of the visa types available to international students, eligibility requirements, the application process, work restrictions, post-graduation options, and the support services offered by Indiana institutions. It also explains the recent visa crisis, ongoing legal battles, and what international students in Indiana should expect moving forward.
Visa Types for International Students in Indiana
Most international students in Indiana study under the F-1 visa, which is the standard nonimmigrant visa for full-time academic students in the United States 🇺🇸. Some may also use the J-1 visa (for exchange visitors) or the M-1 visa (for vocational or technical programs).
F-1 Visa
– For full-time students at accredited U.S. colleges, universities, or language training programs
– Allows on-campus work and limited off-campus employment under certain conditions
– Requires maintaining a full course load and making normal progress toward a degree
J-1 Visa
– For students in approved exchange programs
– Often includes additional requirements, such as returning to the home country for two years after the program ends
M-1 Visa
– For students in non-academic or vocational programs
– Has stricter work restrictions than the F-1 visa
For official details on these visa types, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Student Visa page.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an F-1 visa, international students must:
- Be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school, such as Indiana University, Purdue University, or Notre Dame
- Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs
- Show intent to return home after completing studies (nonimmigrant intent)
- Maintain a valid passport and provide proof of ties to their home country
Students must also receive a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from their school before applying for the visa. The Form I-20 is a critical document for both the visa application and maintaining legal status in the United States.
Application Process
The process for obtaining an F-1 visa involves several steps:
- Apply and Get Accepted
- Apply to an SEVP-certified school in Indiana
- Receive an acceptance letter and the Form I-20
- Pay the SEVIS Fee
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee (currently $350 for F-1 students) online at FMJfee.com
- Complete the DS-160 Form
- Fill out the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
- Upload a passport-style photo
- Schedule a Visa Interview
- Book an appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country
- Pay the visa application fee (usually $185)
- Attend the Interview
- Bring your Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS fee receipt, financial documents, and academic records
- Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans, finances, and ties to your home country
- Receive Your Visa
- If approved, the F-1 visa is placed in your passport
- You may enter the United States up to 30 days before your program start date
Important: Always keep your Form I-20 and passport valid and up to date. Any changes in your program, address, or status must be reported to your school’s international student office.
Work Restrictions for International Students
International students on F-1 visas face strict work rules:
On-Campus Employment
– Allowed up to 20 hours per week during the academic term
– Can work full-time during official school breaks
– No special authorization needed, but must report employment to the school
Off-Campus Employment
– Not allowed during the first academic year
– After one year, students may apply for special work authorization:
– Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Work experience required by the curriculum
– Optional Practical Training (OPT): Up to 12 months of work in the student’s field of study, available before or after graduation
– Severe Economic Hardship: For students facing unexpected financial difficulties
Unauthorized work can lead to loss of legal status and possible removal from the United States. For more information, see the USCIS F-1 Student Employment page.
The Trump Administration’s Visa Revocation Crisis
In April and May 2025, the Trump administration’s Homeland Security Investigations division abruptly revoked the F-1 visa status of more than 1,800 international students across 280 U.S. colleges and universities, including many in Indiana. Students received no warning or explanation. Some were told to stop attending classes and working immediately, and faced the threat of deportation without time to settle their affairs.
Key facts:
– At least seven Indiana universities were affected, including Indiana University, Purdue University, Notre Dame, Indiana Tech, Indiana State University, and the University of Southern Indiana.
– Purdue University reported that 17% of its student body in fall 2024 were international students.
– Many students had already paid tuition and were about to graduate, but suddenly lost access to their studies, jobs, and future opportunities.
Personal stories highlight the impact:
Jelena Liu, a Chinese graduate student at IU Indianapolis, lost her F-1 status despite being on track to graduate. She faced severe mental health challenges and risked losing access to medical care unavailable in her home country. Other students were warned that deportation could happen without notice, making it impossible to secure their belongings or say goodbye to friends.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these sudden actions caused “enormous financial, academic, and emotional hardship” for affected students.
Legal Challenges and Ongoing Uncertainty
The ACLU of Indiana filed two lawsuits challenging the Trump administration’s actions:
- Southern District of Indiana: Focused on Jelena Liu, arguing that her due process rights were violated when her status was revoked without notice or a chance to respond.
- Northern District of Indiana: Represented eight students from Purdue, Notre Dame, and Indiana Tech, making similar claims.
Both lawsuits argue that the Department of Homeland Security violated the Fifth Amendment (right to due process) and the Administrative Procedures Act by not giving students a fair process.
Recent developments:
– In late April 2025, the Department of Homeland Security restored the legal status of affected students, and universities notified them by email.
– However, the government has stated that some students could still lose their visas in the future.
– A Justice Department lawyer told a federal judge that a new system for reviewing and revoking student visas is being developed.
– Legal organizations, including the ACLU, remain concerned that the government could act arbitrarily again.
What this means for students:
Even though most students have had their status reinstated, the legal cases are ongoing. Students with any criminal record, even minor misdemeanors, may face extra scrutiny. Immigration attorney Thomas Fuschetto advises students to be prepared for possible future status reviews.
Post-Graduation Options for International Students
International students in Indiana have several options after graduation:
Optional Practical Training (OPT):
– Up to 12 months of work authorization in the student’s field
– STEM graduates (science, technology, engineering, math) may qualify for a 24-month extension
– Apply early, as processing times can be lengthy
H-1B Work Visa:
– For specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher
– Employers must sponsor the student
– Subject to an annual cap and lottery system
Graduate School:
– Students can apply to continue their studies at the same or a different institution
– Must update their Form I-20 and maintain full-time enrollment
Other Options:
– Some students may qualify for other visa categories, such as the O-1 (for individuals with extraordinary ability) or employer-sponsored green cards
For more details on post-graduation options, visit the USCIS OPT page.
Support Services at Indiana Universities
Indiana universities have responded to the visa crisis by expanding support for international students:
Purdue University
– Staff are in direct contact with each affected student
– Offers both general and personalized support
– Encourages students to contact their home country’s embassy and seek independent legal advice
– Designated contacts: Chris Collins (International Student Services) and Amanda Thompson (International Scholar Services)
Indiana University and Others
– Monitor federal databases to track student status
– Notify students of any changes by email
– Provide counseling, legal referrals, and academic support
General Support Services
– International student offices help with visa questions, employment authorization, and cultural adjustment
– Mental health counseling and emergency assistance are available
– Workshops on work authorization, taxes, and post-graduation planning
Tip: Always keep your school’s international office updated about your address, academic status, and any legal issues. They are your first line of support if problems arise.
Emerging Concerns and Scams
New Visa Review System:
The Trump administration is developing a new system for reviewing and potentially revoking student visas. Details are unclear, but students with any legal issues, even minor ones, may be at higher risk.
Scams Targeting International Students:
Scammers are taking advantage of students’ fears by pretending to be immigration officials and demanding money or personal information. Students from India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan have been especially targeted.
How to protect yourself:
– Never share personal or financial information with unknown callers or email senders
– Contact your school’s international office or the Federal Trade Commission if you receive suspicious messages
– Remember, real immigration officials will never demand payment over the phone or threaten immediate deportation
Broader Academic and Political Context
The recent visa crisis is not the first time international students have faced sudden policy changes. In 2017, President Trump signed an executive order banning entry from several Muslim-majority countries, blocking some students and academics from returning to the United States. Courts quickly struck down the first version, but the uncertainty caused widespread disruption.
In April 2025, hundreds of college presidents and officials signed a letter protesting what they called “unprecedented government overreach and political interference” in higher education. They expressed concern about students facing “fear of retribution, censorship, or deportation.”
Universities across the country, including in Indiana, remain vigilant and are working to protect the rights and well-being of their international students.
Actionable Takeaways for International Students in Indiana
- Stay informed: Regularly check your email and university announcements for updates about your visa status.
- Keep documents current: Make sure your passport, Form I-20, and visa are valid and up to date.
- Use official resources: For the latest on student visas, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Student Visa page.
- Seek support: Contact your school’s international student office for help with legal, academic, or personal issues.
- Be cautious: Watch out for scams and never share sensitive information with unknown sources.
- Know your rights: If you receive notice of visa revocation or other legal action, seek legal advice immediately and inform your university.
The situation for international students in Indiana remains uncertain, but universities, legal organizations, and advocacy groups continue to fight for students’ rights. Staying connected, informed, and proactive is the best way to protect your status and make the most of your educational journey in the United States.
For more in-depth analysis and updates on student visa policies, VisaVerge.com reports that ongoing legal challenges and university advocacy are key to safeguarding international students’ futures in Indiana and across the country.
Learn Today
F-1 visa → A nonimmigrant visa for full-time academic students authorized to study in the United States.
J-1 visa → Exchange visitor visa allowing students in exchange programs, often requiring a two-year home residency after completion.
Form I-20 → Official certificate issued by schools certifying eligibility for F-1 status and required for visa application.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) → Temporary work authorization allowing F-1 students to gain experience in their field for up to 12 months.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) → Authorized employment off-campus linked directly to the student’s academic curriculum during study.
This Article in a Nutshell
Indiana’s international students face visa uncertainty after the Trump administration revoked thousands of F-1 visas abruptly. Support services expanded as legal battles continue, highlighting the importance of staying informed and vigilant against scams while pursuing academic and work opportunities under complex visa rules.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• Oklahoma House blocks plan to collect student immigration status
• UK government plans to shorten Graduate Route in new Immigration White Paper
• Canadian immigration policy shift removes job offer boost in Express Entry
• Danish Conservatives back stricter work permit and immigration policies
• Friedrich Merz’s immigration policies face criticism in new global report
