Students United Statement Regarding SEVIS Record Terminations at Minnesota State Universities

Wednesday night, President Inch of MSU-Mankato alerted the broader campus community that 5 Mankato international students have had their SEVIS records terminated by the federal government. Students United is now aware that Mankato isn’t alone, and a handful of students at St. Cloud, and a Metro State University student have also received notice that their SEVIS records have been terminated.   

SEVIS stands for Student Exchange Visitor Information System, and is part of the visa process which allows students to come to the United States and study at our universities. When a SEVIS record is terminated, a student's ability to continue studying in the United States is impacted in a variety of ways. We have confirmed that each of the seven Minnesota State Universities are consistently checking the SEVIS records of their students and will notify students if changes to their SEVIS record occur.  

Our official guidance for students is to follow the instructions given to them by their campuses’ International Student Support Offices and seek legal counsel if there are changes to their SEVIS record. We are seeking answers for how, and why, these students were flagged for termination by the federal government.  

We understand that legal counsel can be hard to find, and that not all students can afford legal representation. Students United, and many other incredible organizations have been working to identify attorneys who can work pro bono (for free) for our students.  

Students United will continue working to support our students and get answers as to why students are suddenly facing SEVIS termination, less than a month away from graduation. We understand that many students, whether they are international, immigrant, or undocumented, are frightened by this latest news.  

On our website, Students United has created a resource hub that will be continuously updated with resources regarding ICE, mental health resources, and legal support located in Minnesota. Studentsunited.org/legal-resources