(Email sent 5/29/2025 at approximately 9am to ISS International Students from China and Hong Kong)
Sending on behalf of Brent White, Chief Global Officer:
Aloha International Students,
According to recent news reports, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced plans to increase scrutiny of student visa holders and applicants, with a focus on students from China and Hong Kong. This includes possible revocation of visas for individuals deemed connected to the Chinese Communist Party or enrolled in certain areas of study. This latest news is unsettling and concerning.
The announcement did not define which fields of study may be targeted, what constitutes a “connection” to the Chinese Communist Party, or how these measures will be implemented. We are closely monitoring developments and will provide updates as we learn more.
Importantly, if you are currently in the United States on a valid I-20, you may remain in the country. There has been no directive that would affect your immediate presence or lawful status as a student.
If you are outside of the U.S. and have a visa interview scheduled, you should keep that appointment.
In these uncertain times, know that you are valued members of our campus community. Please reach out to our International Student Services office at issmanoa@hawaii.edu with any concerns or questions you may have, or for support you may need.
With care and warm aloha,
Brent White
Chief Global Officer
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
