Policy Reversal Allows International Students to Attend Classes Online

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) rescinded a policy that would have stopped international students from entering or staying in the United States if they were only taking courses online this fall.

The decision was announced at a hearing today in a federal court by U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs who said federal immigration authorities agreed to reverse the rule and "return to the status quo."

The change comes after several lawsuits were filed against ICE and the Department of Homeland Security because of the policy. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul joined 17 other states seeking an injunction to block the rule revision from taking effect. Columbia College Chicago was among the 16 Illinois colleges and universities supporting his legal effort.

Columbia College Chicago President Kwang Wu Kim is encouraged by today's outcome.

"We are pleased by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's decision to rescind its policy that would have prohibited international students from entering or staying in the United States if they were only taking courses online this fall," Kim said. "International students can now begin or resume classes without fearing they will be asked to return home. Columbia College Chicago has an unwavering commitment to student success and we will continue to support our international students and advocate for their best interests."

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