Updates on Evolving Political Landscape
Last updated on July 16, 2025
Current and college-bound students and their families, faculty and staff have lived with uncertainty for months regarding the future of financial aid, federally subsidized student loans, and University finances in general. There is now some clarity with the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Pell Grants will remain intact, and expanded to include short-term programs, but a number of other provisions in student loan programs may change the way undergraduate and graduate degrees are financed. Those changes are outlined in the Financial Aid section, below, but be assured that Fordham will work with each student to minimize the negative impact of these changes.
Fordham University’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment remains steadfast. As a Jesuit institution, we deeply value each community member and recognize the challenges that the current climate can present to your academic pursuits, scholarly research, and professional endeavors.
This webpage is designed to serve as a central, reliable resource for navigating this turbulent period. Our goal is to provide clear and timely updates on how the shifting landscape may affect you, your studies, your work, and the University as a whole. Beyond simply informing, we aim to connect you with the specific resources and support systems to help you with the inevitable challenges that arise.
We ask that departments and units refrain from altering policies, procedures, or regulations without explicit guidance from the Office of Legal Counsel, the Office of the Provost, or their respective vice president.
Guidance outlined below will be updated as new information becomes available.
Jump to a section: Immigration and International Issues | Diversity and Inclusion | Financial Aid | Research
Immigration and International Issues
Fordham University deeply values the contributions of every student, faculty, and staff member, regardless of immigration status. You enrich our community with diverse perspectives, cultures, and scholarly expertise, fostering a global learning environment that is central to our mission. We understand that changes in federal policies and procedures may create unique challenges and uncertainties. This section should provide you with the information and support you need to navigate these complexities and continue to thrive at Fordham.
» Immigration-Related Emergencies
For students, faculty, and staff who encounter an immigration-related emergency such as arrest, challenges navigating a U.S. port of entry, or detention by Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE), or who are in danger of immediate deportation from the U.S., call Fordham Public Safety at 718-817-2222 (Rose Hill) or 212-636-6076 (Lincoln Center). Inform the officer of your immigration emergency, and Public Safety will put you in touch with the University resources appropriate to your situation. If necessary, Fordham will provide you with support, including connecting you with pro-bono legal consultation to assist you in evaluating any given emergency.
Should such an emergency arise, Fordham is committed to providing support. Fordham has engaged the legal services of an external immigration law firm to provide initial, complimentary legal consultations. These consultations are specifically available to current Fordham students, faculty, and staff facing emergency immigration-related issues, including removal proceedings, visa revocation, and detainment. The initial consultation is intended to offer preliminary legal guidance and assessment of critical immigration situations. The consultation covers the first meeting. Should you need ongoing legal representation, you will need a separate agreement directly with the lawyers, or you may engage an immigration law firm of your choosing. Learn more about legal resources.
» Responding to Requests from Law Enforcement Agencies
University procedures are grounded in the Jesuit tradition of being people for others. We hold to the Ignatian principle of care for the whole person and respect the dignity of every individual, including their right to feel safe wherever they may be on campus.
Law enforcement investigations may occasionally require officers to come to one of our campuses (including off-campus residences owned by the University). This section outlines the Fordham University Department of Public Safety procedures in place under those circumstances. These procedures are designed to protect the rights and privacy of our students, faculty, and staff, while accommodating the lawful requests of law enforcement agencies.
If you are on a Fordham campus and approached by a law enforcement officer who requests access to University facilities, inquires about members of the campus community, or requests access to student records, immediately follow these steps:
- Step 1: Ask the law enforcement officer for their name, identification number, and agency affiliation.
- Step 2: Inform the officer that you are not obstructing their process but do not have the authority to release information without consulting the University administration. Contact Public Safety at 718-817-2222 (Rose Hill) or 212-636-6076 (Lincoln Center) and request a Duty Supervisor, and they and others will help determine the appropriate next steps.
- Step 3: Public Safety will obtain whatever judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena the law enforcement officers may present and immediately connect with Fordham’s Office of Legal Counsel to evaluate the documents. Public Safety will coordinate with law enforcement to serve warrants/subpoenas, if necessary.
Unless law enforcement officers are responding to a lawful request, Public Safety will not allow them on campus, nor share any student or employee information with them. Law enforcement officers must provide judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, which Fordham’s Office of Legal Counsel will verify before access to campus property will be granted.
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Generally, law enforcement can only require you to allow entry to these spaces with a specific type of judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. If you are presented with such lawfully issued documents, you should follow the step-by-step instructions above.
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No. Fordham cannot prohibit law enforcement officers from coming on campus to enforce federal law. However, you should alert the Department of Public Safety that a law enforcement officer is on campus.
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It depends. The answer is yes if the law enforcement officer has a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. If the officer does not have such documents, the answer is no. If approached, contact the Resident Director on duty and Public Safety.
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Generally, yes. A residence hall room is considered a limited-access area. Students should follow the above protocol if approached by law enforcement requesting access to a residence hall.
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No. As a Fordham employee, per federal privacy laws and University Education Records Policy, you must maintain the confidentiality of personal and personally identifiable information, including student records. Law enforcement officers are generally required to produce a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena authorizing the disclosure of such records.
If you are asked for a student’s personal or personally identifiable information by an individual who has identified themself as a law enforcement officer, regardless of whether they present a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena, inform the officer that you need to speak with a University administrator and immediately contact the Department of Public Safety and request a Duty Supervisor for further guidance. The Department of Public Safety will address the request with Fordham’s Office of Legal Counsel.
» Privacy Laws Prohibit the Release of Student Records
Consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Fordham University prohibits the access, review, and/or disclosure of personally identifiable information from a student’s educational records without the student’s written consent or other exceptions including a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena or warrant. Any such order or subpoena must be reviewed and determined to be lawfully issued by the Office of Legal Counsel prior to the release of such information.
» Resources for Undocumented Students (DACA)
Since 1841, we have kept faith with the vision of Archbishop John Hughes, who founded Fordham to serve immigrants and their families. View resources for undocumented students (DACA).
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No. Fordham is committed to protecting the privacy of all students: In alignment with best practices in higher education, Fordham does not proactively track the immigration status of its students. We believe that all students deserve access to education and a safe learning environment regardless of their status. The University’s focus is on ensuring that all students have the support and resources they need to succeed academically.
» International Students, Faculty, Staff (Nonimmigrant Population)
Nonimmigrant students, faculty, and staff who have F-1 or J-1 visas can reach out to the Office of International Services (OIS) for guidance and support regarding their nonimmigrant status. For faculty and staff whose immigration status is based on Fordham sponsorship, please contact the Office of Human Resources with any questions and for support related to sponsorship.
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It is always advisable for international students, faculty, and staff to carry their passport, visa stamp (if applicable), Form I-20 or DS-2019, and any other relevant immigration documents with them.
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Before traveling, visa holders should make an appointment with OIS to ensure their Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records are active and their Form I-20/DS-2019 is properly endorsed for travel (usually within the past year). All Fordham students, faculty, and staff who are not U.S. citizens should carry their immigration documents with them. Be aware that individuals may face increased scrutiny upon reentry to the U.S.
» F-1 Visa Application Interviews
As of Tuesday, May 27, the U.S. Department of State has ordered U.S. embassies to temporarily pause scheduling visa interviews as consulates await further guidance on expanded social media screening and vetting of visa applicants. It’s unclear how long this pause will last. The University is closely monitoring this evolving situation, while working to develop mitigation plans, should the visa interview pause cause significant delay in your travel to the U.S.
Despite the current pause in scheduling visa interviews, for international students progressing through the visa application process, we recommend the following:
- If you are scheduled for a visa interview, proceed as planned with the interview unless the consulate advises you otherwise.
- Continue submitting all required documentation for your visa application as promptly as possible. This will help ensure that your application is ready for processing once scheduling interviews resumes.
- Monitor your email regularly for updates from the U.S. Department of State and Fordham regarding the visa application process. Staying informed and responding promptly to requests will help you navigate the process efficiently.
If you have questions regarding the visa application process, please call the Office for International Services (OIS) at +1 (718) 817-3145 or connect via email at [email protected] for assistance.
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Proceed with the interview as planned unless the consulate advises you otherwise. Keep the Office for International Services updated as you progress through the process.
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Ensure all required documentation for your visa application is submitted as promptly as possible. Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country to monitor when interview scheduling resumes.
» Revocation of Student Visas
International students and scholars should be aware that the U.S. Department of State has again begun revoking the visas as of Thursday, May 8, in Fordham’s case. The process is different from its previous actions: in this case SEVIS records will remain active, meaning you may stay in the U.S. to continue your studies or scholarly work, but if you leave the U.S., you will not be readmitted.
On Wednesday, May 28, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the Trump administration intends to revoke visas of Chinese students with ties to the Chinese Communist Party or who are studying in "critical fields," which the New York Times reports most likely “refers to research in the physical sciences.” The University is monitoring this developing situation closely, and will continue to engage directly with those students potentially impacted.
Visa revocation notices are being sent to the email address you used to apply for the visa; therefore it is important for you to check your email frequently, and certainly prior to leaving the U.S. for any reason.* You can check your visa status anytime at: https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx (for Visa Application Type, select “NONIMMIGRANT VISA (NIV).”
*If an attorney or law firm filed the visa application on your behalf from the firm’s email address, we strongly encourage you to remain in contact with them to ensure you are informed of any changes in your visa status.
Should you receive a notification from the U.S. Department of State regarding your visa status, contact the Office for International Services (OIS) immediately at 718-817-3145 or [email protected].
If you are an international student and decide to remain in the U.S. for the summer rather than traveling home, and need housing assistance, contact the Office of Residential Life for your campus:
Lincoln Center
McMahon Hall, Room 108
212-636-7100
[email protected]
Rose Hill
Loschert Hall Garden Level
718-817-3080
[email protected]
In the event that your visa is revoked, Fordham is committed to providing swift support, connecting you with appropriate resources. The University will assess your circumstances and offer assistance tailored to your situation. This support may include guidance from the OIS on navigating the complex implications of visa revocation, as well as connecting you with pro-bono legal consultation to help you understand your rights and explore the available options. Fordham aims to ensure that you are not alone in addressing this challenging situation and will advocate for your well-being within the bounds of the law.
Our primary concern is your well-being and continued success. Fordham’s Counseling and Psychological Services are available to you over the summer should you seek support in navigating this time of uncertainty. If questions arise regarding your visa and/or travels to/from the U.S. in support of your studies, please reach out to the Office for International Services for support.
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Prudential visa revocation is a process through which the U.S. Department of State can cancel a visa without any formal immigration violations or criminal convictions. This is based on the Secretary of State’s discretionary authority if they determine a person’s presence could have potentially adverse foreign policy consequences.
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While some revocations may be due to criminal records or immigration violations, we have seen reports of visas being revoked for seemingly minor infractions, such as traffic violations, sometimes occurring years ago. In some cases, the reasons for revocation remain unclear to both the students and the University.
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Immediately contact the Office of International Services, who can confirm your status and provide you guidance and support to navigate next steps.
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If your SEVIS record is terminated, you are considered out of status. You should immediately contact OIS to understand the implications and discuss potential options, which may include departing the U.S. and seeking a new visa or exploring other legal pathways with the assistance of an immigration attorney.
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Yes, if the primary visa holder’s F-1 or J-1 visa is revoked, the dependent spouse’s and children’s (F-2 or J-2) visas may also be revoked.
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Fordham University has not requested or initiated the revocation of any student visas. The authority to issue and revoke visas rests solely with the U.S. Department of State.
Universities like Fordham are required to maintain and update student information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a federal database. These updates reflect a student’s enrollment status and compliance with visa regulations. However, universities do not have the authority to request or cause a visa to be revoked. Visa revocations can only be made by the U.S. government.
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It’s important to understand that the U.S. government has broad authority to revoke visas. While the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental freedom in the United States, immigration officials may scrutinize any activity that they perceive as a potential threat to national security or public safety. International students, faculty, and staff should consult with an immigration attorney for advice on their specific circumstances.
» Travel Ban
As announced in a Presidential Proclamation dated June 4, 2025, the U.S. is instituting a full travel ban on 12 countries and a partial travel ban on seven countries, effective at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 9, 2025. Countries impacted include Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar (Burma), Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. The ban provisions are applicable only to nationals of the subject country who are outside the U.S. without a valid visa as of June 9, 2025.
For current visa holders from impacted countries: While the proclamation acknowledges valid visas are exempt from the ban, we highly recommend visa holders from impacted countries remain in the U.S. or return by Sunday, June 8, to avoid any issues at ports of entry as the travel ban goes into effect.
For international students/scholars seeking visas from impacted countries: You are encouraged to continue with your visa application process. Continue submitting all required documentation for your visa application as promptly as possible. If you are scheduled for a visa interview, proceed as planned with the interview unless the consulate advises you otherwise.
If you have questions regarding the travel ban, please call the Office for International Services (OIS) at +1 (718) 817-3145 or connect via email at [email protected] for assistance.
» Avoid Scams
Be aware of scams that target international students with fake calls, emails, and letters that appear to be from a federal agency, threatening deportation unless an immediate payment is made for an immigration violation. International students residing in the U.S. who receive any communication (including email and/or phone calls) from the federal government related to your visa or status should immediately contact the Office of International Services for guidance and support.
» University-Sponsored Travel
All faculty and staff participating in Fordham-sponsored travel must enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, and in Fordham’s Travel Registry found in the “Home tab” in the my.fordham.edu portal. Review Fordham’s travel and expense policy for more details.
Diversity and Inclusion
As a Catholic university in the Jesuit tradition, Fordham aims to form individuals who are intellectually capable and committed to building a more just world. As people for others, our mission is not only rooted in the Gospel but also in the nearly 500-year history of the Jesuits and in the long tradition of Catholic social teaching, which invites us to …
- Reflect on our responsibility to uphold the dignity of each person as created by God
- Promote the common good
- Work toward a more just and compassionate society
We embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging principles as central to our Jesuit mission—and as part of our commitment to promote understanding, solidarity, and a sense of duty toward others and our broader community. Learn more.
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No, Fordham adheres to the 2023 Supreme Court decision that ended race-conscious admission programs at colleges and universities.
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Fordham University is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, arrest record, parental status, genetic information, gender identity or expression (including transgender status), height and weight, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Financial Aid
Student Loans
Beginning July 1, 2026, Parent PLUS loans will be capped, and Grad PLUS loans eliminated entirely (students who have already received a Grad PLUS loan will be allowed to continue accessing them under the current limits for up to three more academic years). Annual and lifetime graduate loans will be capped. Income-driven repayment plans for future students will be consolidated and economic hardship and unemployment deferments will be eliminated in July 2026.
Fordham will continue to make its own financial aid and scholarships our top budget priority and will work hard to do more.
Pell Grants
Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed by Congress in the first week of July, Congress approved an additional $10 billion for the Pell Grant program to address a shortfall, effective October 1, 2025. The bill also introduces workforce Pell for all accredited institutions. Pell Grant eligibility will be eliminated for students with a full ride or if their Student Aid Index exceeds twice the maximum award.
Detailed information on the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on higher education can be found in the guidance from the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and the American Council on Education.
Research
Faculty and researchers who receive notice from a federal agency regarding potential changes to grant requirements, including certification requests, should immediately contact William Colona ([email protected]), Special Assistant to the Provost, for guidance.
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Yes. To date, Fordham has lost approximately $600,000 in federal research grants.
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Fordham advises researchers to proceed with their federally funded research projects according to the terms of their existing contracts and grant agreements. It is important to note that changes in federal policy require careful interpretation, and the University will provide guidance as it becomes available. In the event that a federal agency issues a stop-work order, certification request, or provides specific direction to discontinue DEI-related activities within a funded project, connect immediately with Bill Colona, Special Assistant to the Provost, for guidance.