Last spring, as the United States introduced stricter visa regulations, international students at Columbia University found themselves navigating an environment of profound uncertainty. Thousands of visas were revoked as part of the then-Trump administration’s intensified scrutiny of foreign students’ activities. On campus, the visible presence of plainclothes Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents heightened anxiety, leaving many students and scholars apprehensive about their legal status. Reports indicated that several university affiliates, including Mahmoud Khalil, Rümeysa Öztürk, and Mohsen Mahdawi, were even detained for their pro-Palestinian advocacy before their release, raising significant concerns about academic freedom and freedom of speech for international scholars.
A Financial Safety Net
In response to these challenges, Columbia University acted swiftly to protect its international community. In April, Acting University President Claire Shipman announced the creation of the International Student Hardship Fund, specifically designed to help students cover unforeseen travel and visa-related costs. Since its launch, the fund has distributed nearly $500,000, providing grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 to students in good academic standing. Shipman highlighted the collaborative support from the Office of the President, the Board of Trustees, and dedicated alumni donors, which made this initiative possible.
Speed and Support in Action
The university’s commitment extended far beyond financial assistance. The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) drastically accelerated the issuance of I-20 forms—crucial documents that certify an international student’s eligibility to study in the U.S. Approvals were completed within just 24 hours, a significant improvement from the usual one to two weeks. International student advisors meticulously tracked applications worldwide, offering individualized guidance and resolving issues at every stage. In instances where visa delays threatened to impact enrollment, the university proactively explored alternative academic paths to ensure students could commence their programs without interruption.
Welcoming Students to a Global Community
Shipman underscored Columbia’s comprehensive approach to supporting its international students, noting that over 1,800 incoming students participated in pre-arrival programs, and more than 1,000 new students attended the New International Student Welcome Gathering at Lerner Hall in September. Significantly, international students comprise 16% of the incoming class of 2029 admitted to Columbia College and the School of Engineering and Applied Science.
Preparing for Policy Shifts
Beyond immediate relief, Columbia is actively preparing for potential future policy changes. The federal government’s proposed $100,000 fee on H-1B visas could impose an additional cost of $10 to 20 million on the university. In fiscal year 2025 alone, Columbia sponsored 112 H-1B hires, which include postdoctoral fellows, assistant faculty, and research staff. Shipman reassured the university community that Columbia will continue to provide guidance and resources to help students and staff navigate evolving immigration regulations.
A Statement of Commitment
“We support the same rights to free expression, due process, and fair treatment for all of our students,” Shipman affirmed. “The world comes to New York, and to Columbia, and we are the better for it.” Columbia’s decisive response underscores the vital role universities can play in protecting international students amidst regulatory uncertainty. By combining robust financial support, administrative agility, and personalized advising, the university has established a commendable precedent for institutions facing similar challenges. In an environment where visa policies can change rapidly, Columbia’s $500,000 lifeline offers more than just aid—it provides stability and a clear message of inclusion.