Some universities suspend certain work authorization applications.
UC Berkeley describes its recent memo as “more focused and direct.”
Advocacy groups voice concerns over academic freedom and fair treatment.
WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has issued a directive aimed at colleges and universities to limit the issuance of specific internship work authorizations for international students. The federal government has warned institutions that non-compliance could result in losing certification to admit foreign students.
According to the memo dated August 24, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), operated by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, has noticed an increase in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) approvals that may violate regulations. The regulations specify that CPT should only be granted when the training is an essential part of an established curriculum.
Failure to adhere to SEVP guidelines could lead to an institution losing its certification to host international students, the memo states.
Following this, some schools, including UCLA and UC Berkeley, have halted certain international student work authorization applications.
A UCLA spokesperson confirmed, “UCLA has paused some Curricular Practical Training approvals while reviewing recent federal guidance and determining next steps.”
UC Berkeley’s international office noted that the August 24 memo was “more narrowly focused, more straightforward, and includes more restrictive content.” The federal government had issued an earlier memo in mid-August as well.
The Berkeley international office announced it would extend the pause on certain work authorizations for international students for the foreseeable future. They clarified that they will continue processing CPT necessary for degree requirements as usual and will resume processing CPT related to doctoral dissertations and master’s thesis research once ready.
The office also revealed plans to consult legal experts to establish new procedures aligned with the updated federal regulations.
The Department of Homeland Security, parent agency of ICE, stated, “There have been no changes to these regulations. Schools and employers should be aware: under the Trump administration, misuse of this system will no longer be tolerated.”
President Trump’s policies have increasingly targeted universities through investigations and threats of funding reductions over issues including protests against US support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, diversity initiatives, climate programs, and transgender policies.
Rights advocates have raised concerns about free speech, academic freedom, and due process.
In a related issue, the Justice Department alleged on Thursday that admissions practices at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences favored Black and Hispanic applicants. The department based this on findings from an investigation and continues to push the administration to limit diversity efforts.
The university responded, “We are disappointed by the DOJ’s conclusions, which we believe are incorrect. Our admissions policies comply with the law and are not discriminatory.”
The Justice Department has made similar claims against other institutions, emphasizing its intention to pursue settlement negotiations. If negotiations fail, lawsuits are anticipated.
Additionally, the Trump administration has revoked visas for student protesters involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, which it has labeled as antisemitic and supportive of extremist groups.
Protesters, including members of Jewish communities, argue that opposition to Israel’s military actions and occupation in Gaza is not antisemitic, and advocating for Palestinian rights does not equate to extremism.