At Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), international students play a vital role in shaping the community’s diversity and global perspectives. Yet, behind the scenes, many of these students are grappling with rising uncertainty, financial stress, and fear due to increasingly complex visa regulations and shifting immigration policies in the United States.
One international student described the difficult path it took just to be accepted into SNHU. “I started my process in 2021… and I got my visa in 2023. It’s a long process,” they shared. After facing a visa rejection, reapplication fees, and additional financial burdens, the student finally secured their place. “To get a bank loan, it’s like 3 million Indian rupees. That’s huge,” they added, highlighting the overwhelming costs students often bear before even stepping onto campus.
Beyond financial hurdles, there is an ever-present fear of losing visa status over minor infractions. “I heard students got their SEVIS [Student and Exchange Visitor Information System] terminated because of driving violations” the student said. Termination of SEVIS status can have lifelong consequences, making even simple mistakes feel catastrophic.
One staff member working in student support emphasized the growing fear and behavioral shifts they have observed. “Students are carrying their documentation at all times, even on quick trips to the store, out of fear they’ll be asked to prove their status,” they noted. “And some are reluctant to drive at all.”
The visa process itself is often confusing and costly. Another staff member explained that students must often travel back to their home countries to renew visas, facing uncertain re-entry. For students from countries experiencing political instability or from Muslim-majority nations, the risk feels even higher. “It’s not just policy—it’s personal. Students worry about whether they’ll even be allowed back in if they leave to visit family,” the staff member said.
Earlier this spring, new federal actions left international students nationwide—some at SNHU included—facing unexpected visa revocations. On April 10, 2025, SNHU responded with a direct statement to its international students, reaffirming their commitment to supporting impacted individuals. “You are a vital part of our university community, and your presence here enriches our campus in countless ways — academically, culturally, and personally,” the message read. University leaders emphasized that they are proactively monitoring students’ SEVIS records and are working with affected individuals to connect them to critical resources. “We stand with you — and we are grateful you’re here,” the letter concluded.
A university spokesperson emphasized SNHU’s continued attention to the situation, noting that the school is “closely monitoring federal developments related to student visas.” They confirmed that, as of late April, “SEVIS records have been restored for nearly all SNHU students and graduates who were recently affected.” The spokesperson added that SNHU will remain vigilant in tracking any further updates from the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security.
Despite the growing uncertainty, SNHU offers several resources to assist students:
- International Student Services (ISS) serves as the central hub for immigration and visa-related guidance. Students can reach out via email or attend regular update sessions.
- The CARE Team provides case management and connects students with emotional, academic, and legal support.
- The Wellness Center offers mental health and medical services, including access to 24/7 virtual mental health support via the HelpU platform.
- Public Safety is available for students with safety concerns, and the department aims to foster trust and accessibility.
- Community organizations like the International Institute of New England, Catholic Charities, and Ascentria Care Alliance offer legal and social services in the Manchester area.
The challenges international students face do not exist in isolation. They are part of a larger conversation about identity, belonging, and the ways institutions and communities must adapt to support those at risk.
One staff member put it simply: “Neutrality isn’t enough. Students need real emotional support, not just legal compliance.” They pointed out that while SNHU has remained legally compliant, the emotional burden on students cannot be overlooked.
How the SNHU Community Can Help
Support from the broader SNHU community is essential. Here’s how students, faculty, and staff can make a difference:
- Stay Informed: Immigration policy changes can be fast and confusing. Take the time to read university updates, attend forums or discussions, and seek reputable news sources. ISS and the International Student page on mySNHU provide important information.
- Practice Empathy and Discretion: Understand that many students may not feel comfortable discussing their immigration status openly. Respect privacy and offer support without pressing for personal details.
- Show Up: Attend events, workshops, or student-led discussions focused on international and immigration issues. Presence matters.
- Advocate Thoughtfully: Contact local representatives to support policies that protect international students and visa holders. Advocacy can happen in ways that respect both student privacy and broader social change.
- Offer Practical Help: Something as simple as offering a ride to the grocery store, inviting someone to a club meeting, or helping navigate job resources can make a profound difference.
- Create Safe Spaces: Clubs, organizations, and classrooms should continue to foster environments where international students feel seen, supported, and included.
Ultimately, as one staff member emphasized, “Our international students bring global perspectives that enrich all of us. We must continue to advocate for their right to learn, grow, and contribute to this university.”
At a time when uncertainty seems to loom large, one thing remains clear: community matters. In the face of complex policies and silent struggles, a warm welcome, an informed ally, and a helping hand can make all the difference.
Resources for International Students and Allies at SNHU:
- International Student Services (ISS): iss@snhu.edu
- CARE Team: CAREteam@snhu.edu
- Wellness Center: Call 603.645.9679 or visit the HelpU Login (username SNHU)
- Public Safety: safety@snhu.edu or 603.645.9700
- International Institute of New England: https://iine.org/
- Catholic Charities of New Hampshire: https://www.cc-nh.org/
- Ascentria Care Alliance: https://www.ascentria.org/
