This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
On July 6, 2020, the US Department of Homeland Security issued a policy revision affecting foreign students studying in the United States. The new policy restricts foreign students from attending classes completely online, with the possibility of deportation if they fail to comply.
The policy change, announced by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), modifies temporary exemptions for nonimmigrant students taking online courses during the fall 2020 semester. The revised policy aims to ensure that international students are able to engage in in-person learning and maintain their F-1 student status.
The US Embassy in Nairobi had previously announced the 2014 Diversity Visa (Green Card) requirements, but this latest policy change affects a different aspect of international student life in the US.
