Resources Related to Federal Action on Immigration and Travel
Dear members of the Northwestern community,
A series of recent high-profile immigration actions taken against students and scholars around the United States plus persistent speculation about possible travel restrictions have understandably shaken members of the Northwestern community, particularly our international students, faculty and staff.
There are many conversations about what these actions mean for higher education and what similar activity here could mean for the academic mission of Northwestern, a global institution that welcomes students, scholars and staff from all over the world. Northwestern’s international students and scholars bring with them perspectives and experiences that are critical to our shared academic success. We cannot do our best work without attracting the best minds from around the world.
We write to you today to share the guidance and resources that are currently available while we continue to monitor the evolving federal activities and potential policy actions related to immigration and international travel.
Guidance on engaging with federal officials
If you or someone you know is approached by a federal officer on or off campus, the most efficient way to alert the University is to call Northwestern Police at (847) 491-3456. Please describe the situation to the dispatcher, who will then notify the appropriate University officials. If the agent produces identification and a signed warrant, comply with their order. Bystanders should remain calm and not interfere and instead relay the events to the dispatcher or University official onsite.
The University will follow the law. At the same time, we will work to ensure the rights of each member of our community and will connect them with appropriate assistance, when necessary, to help protect those rights.
Some have asked if the University will provide legal protection for members of our community who are detained as part of the federal government’s immigration and travel actions. We encourage anyone with legal questions about such situations to reach out to an immigration attorney.
Guidance related to travel
Recently, the U.S. Secretary of State announced that the Department of State is revoking visas. In addition, news outlets have reported on potential travel restrictions currently under consideration. Our international community members are advised to be aware of these and future developments as they consider any international travel and are encouraged to review information about appropriate documentation and guidance on re-entry to the United States. Students and scholars with questions about their Northwestern-affiliated immigration status should contact the Office of International Students and Scholars at intoff@northwestern.edu or (847) 491-5613.
Students planning University-sponsored international travel should review the international travel registry homepage for instructions and eligibility criteria. Faculty and staff traveling on University business are strongly encouraged to book their travel through one of Northwestern’s contracted travel agencies.
Resources available to students, staff and faculty
We know that many members of our community are experiencing increased anxiety. Northwestern offers a number of wellness resources for those who need help or are in a crisis.
- NUhelp is a guide for students navigating Northwestern's safety, crisis and wellness resources. View a summary roadmap of your options.
- NUGuardian is a free app for students to enhance their personal safety by designating phone contacts as “guardians” who walk (virtually) with them.
- Staff and faculty can access the Northwestern Employee Assistance Program for support.
We understand this time is filled with worry and uncertainty. Northwestern takes these concerns very seriously, and we will continue to provide information as we are able.