NDI responds to latest announcement from the Department of Homeland Security regarding international students
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is withdrawing a proposed rule that would make it harder for international students to maintain enrollment in U.S. universities. A formal notice withdrawing the proposed rule was published Tuesday, July 6, 2021 in the Federal Register.
“We are pleased by the Biden administration's decision to withdraw the proposed rule to eliminate duration of status (D/S) for F students and J exchange visitors,” says Leah Zimmer, director of International Student and Scholar Affairs (ISSA). “The University is committed to ensuring our vibrant international student and scholar community can thrive and flourish. Their presence advances the intellectual, professional, and personal goals of the entire Notre Dame community.”
On October 30, 2020, three University of Notre Dame leaders filed a formal comment on behalf of the University urging DHS to withdraw the proposal. The statement was filed by Marie Lynn Miranda, Charles and Jill Fischer Provost; Michael Pippenger, vice president and associate provost of internationalization; and Laura Carlson, vice president and dean of the Graduate School. They outlined five primary concerns with the proposal and the ways in which it would negatively affect international students and scholars; their research, professors and peers; and the University’s mission.
“The impact of this proposed rule would have been devastating,” concludes Zimmer. “We urge the current administration to continue to prioritize making the U.S. a more welcoming place for international students and scholars.”
According to the latest announcement, DHS said it received more than 32,000 public comments on the proposal. More than 99 percent of commenters opposed the proposed rule. Read the formal notice in full.
Originally published by at international.nd.edu on July 07, 2021.