Anjan Roy, a graduate student in computer science from Bangladesh, faced a sudden and alarming situation while studying at Missouri State University. An unexpected email informed him that his legal status as an international student had been revoked, putting him at risk of deportation. “I was in literal shock, like, what the hell is this?” Roy expressed his disbelief over the abrupt situation.
Initially, Roy avoided public places, skipped classes, and kept his phone turned off most of the time. Fortunately, he received a favorable court ruling, which reinstated his status. Despite moving back to his apartment, he remains cautious, asking his roommates to check visitors.
Roy’s experience is not isolated. Over a thousand international students are dealing with similar upheavals, with their academic futures and U.S. residency hanging by a thread due to aggressive measures taken by the U.S. administration. In various legal decisions, federal judges have at least temporarily restored some students’ legal status. Roy is among 133 individuals involved in a case in Atlanta, where a judge issued a temporary restraining order; similar court actions have occurred in several states including New Hampshire, Minnesota, and Oregon.
Students are contesting the basis for the withdrawal of their legal standing. Marco Rubio, Secretary of State, highlighted that visas were being rescinded for those acting against national interests, citing some who have demonstrated against Israel’s engagement in Gaza or faced criminal accusations. Yet, many affected students claim involvement in only minor infractions, questioning why they were singled out.
The attorney representing Roy and others, Charles Kuck, argued that the government’s actions lacked legal justification. Kuck suggested that the government is pressuring students to self-deport. He shared that some students fear even stepping out to buy food, while others are concerned about the status of their degrees and their future careers in the U.S.
On the government’s side, attorney R. David Powell contended that students did not suffer extensive harm and could transfer credits or seek employment elsewhere. According to an analysis from educational institutions and legal records, at least 1,190 students across 183 educational systems have had their visas revoked or status terminated since late March.
A new lawsuit filed by four University of Iowa students on Monday emphasized the “mental and financial suffering” their revocation has caused. One Indian graduate student described dealing with severe anxiety, disrupting daily activities, while a Chinese student noted that the situation has intensified his depression.
Roy, who initially joined Missouri State University in August 2024, was an active member of the chess club and fraternity. After completing his undergraduate degree in computer science in December, he began a master’s program. He assumed he’d graduate in May 2026.
When alerted to his status termination on April 10, Roy and a friend visited the university’s international services office despite an impending quiz. While the staff confirmed his status had been revoked, they couldn’t provide an explanation. Roy’s only encounter with law enforcement occurred in 2021 due to a misunderstanding, not resulting in charges.
News of his visa revocation came simultaneously with an ominous email from the U.S. embassy in Bangladesh, suggesting possible detention and deportation. Roy debated leaving the U.S. but resolved to remain after consulting with a lawyer, opting to stay temporarily with relatives out of fear.
Having restored his original status, Roy returned to his apartment. However, he remains vigilant, instructing his roommates to announce visitors. The legal decision reinstating his status is provisional, with a forthcoming hearing deciding its permanence.
Roy initially chose the U.S. over Canada and Australia, seeking extensive research and professional networking opportunities. He aspired to become a teacher at an American university. However, these objectives are now in jeopardy. His family in Dhaka are deeply worried, staying informed through news updates. His father suggested considering family connections in Melbourne, Australia, as an alternative for his future.