We are writing to share important news regarding F-1 student visa records and SEVP-initiated SEVIS terminations that began surfacing at the end of March 2025. On April 25, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officially reversed a policy that had led to the mass termination of active SEVIS records for international students across the country. This reversal follows extensive advocacy from institutions, legal organizations, and international education professionals nationwide. 

What Happened 

Beginning around March 28, 2025, Northeastern's Office of Global Services (OGS) and other institutions across the U.S. began noticing a concerning pattern: Active F-1 student’s and recent graduate’s SEVIS records were being terminated, despite students/alumni maintaining their F-1 status. These unexpected terminations occurred without notice or explanation, creating confusion and fear among students and institutions alike. 

In response, OGS immediately began tracking SEVIS records daily, monitoring for unexpected changes, and contacting affected students and alumni to provide direct support. We collaborated closely with our colleagues in the field, consulted with legal experts, and submitted documentation to key stakeholders to advocate for student protection and clarity. 

On April 25th, DHS confirmed that it will reverse the SEVIS terminations and restore all records that were terminated in error. This announcement is a direct result of sustained advocacy efforts and widespread concern from the higher education and legal communities. 

What This Means for Students 

  • DHS has committed to restoring SEVIS records that were wrongfully terminated. 
  • Impacted students and alumni have been contacted directly by OGS when their SEVIS record is restored to provide guidance about next steps forward. Students should continue to work with the advisor in OGS that has been supporting them. 
  • Students should continue to work closely with their personal attorney for guidance on how the SEVIS termination reversal impacts them personally, including whether it is advisable to travel, whether they need a new visa, and whether they can  work on campus employment, engage in integral  experiential learning activities through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization, or return to work with authorized Optional Practical Training (OPT) or the STEM OPT extension. They are also advised to discuss with their attorney any potential long-term implications that may impact their academic goals while in F-1 status.  
  • OGS continues to monitor student SEVIS records daily and this developing situation closely, especially as ICE and other agencies move forward with developing a new policy framework around SEVIS terminations. A senior DHS official has confirmed that while SEVIS records have been restored, students may still face future status or visa challenges as policy evolves. We do not share this information to alarm students, but rather to emphasize the importance of remaining informed and cautious during this ongoing period of uncertainty. 
  • OGS remains fully committed to providing support, advocacy, and timely information as the situation continues to unfold. 

OGS Actions Since March 28 

  • Reviewed and tracked SEVIS record changes for all active F-1 and J-1 students daily. 
  • Notified impacted students and alumni immediately and provided options for persistence. 
  • Coordinated with institutional and national partners to identify trends and advocate for resolution. 
  • Collaborated with immigration attorneys and professional associations to elevate student concerns to DHS. 

We understand that this situation has caused a great deal of uncertainty and concern. Please know that the Office of Global Services remains committed to protecting and advocating for our international students and scholars. If you believe your SEVIS record has been affected or have concerns about your visa status, we encourage you to contact OGS directly. 

For more information on visa revocations and the broader political context, please also see Northeastern’s ‘Navigating a New Political Landscape’ FAQ.