Immigration Updates for Students
The Office of International Services at Saint Louis University is closely monitoring immigration policy changes and is committed to provide timely updates on impacts from executive actions, legislation, or updates to the federal regulations.
International students, scholars and campus stakeholders are notified through email.
Aug. 20, 2026 Update
The following was emailed to students directly affected by Broadcast Message 2608-01 on Aug. 20, restricting which academic programs can allow Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
SLU has paused the processing of all new or extension Curricular Practical Training (CPT) requests except in cases in which employment is required in order to complete the degree.
This decision follows the Broadcast Message (BCM 2608-01) from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regarding CPT authorization requirements and advisor liability.
In the email, SEVP has made it clear that for students to use CPT, the employment must be required of all students in their degree program. In the email, SEVP states that schools must:
Only authorize CPT if its absence would make the attainment of a degree an impossibility and if the work associated with CPT is required for all students pursuing that degree.
Unfortunately, we are unable to make exceptions to the pause at this time. However, we are monitoring the situation closely and will notify you promptly if the government provides further clarification of the guidance or allows optional CPT again.
Note: Students who have been issued a CPT authorized I-20 for the fall 2026 semester can continue to use their CPT as planned.
Dec. 16, 2025 Update
The following was emailed to students directly affected by the Tuesday, Dec. 16, proclamation expanding the list of countries who are restricting from entering the United States.
Important Update Regarding Recent Presidential Proclamation on Entry Restrictions
On Tuesday, Dec. 16, the president of the United States issued a new proclamation that restricts or limits the entry into the U.S. for nationals of certain countries. The restrictions become effective Jan. 1, 2026.
The proclamation expanded the list of affected countries for those who are outside the U.S. and seeking to enter or re-enter. The Office of International Services is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
Importantly, these restrictions do not affect individuals who are already in the United States with valid status, nor do they revoke existing valid visas.
That said, we strongly advise against international travel at this time if you are from one of the affected countries. Even with the exceptions, we cannot be sure that you will be eligible to re-enter the United States.
The Office of International Services is here to support you fully during this uncertain period. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our office for assistance.