Message to current international students

Below is a copy of a Feb. 27, 2026, email shared with F-1 and J-1 international students. A similar message was sent to international visiting scholars.

Reports of Immigration Enforcement Activity in our Community

Dear student,

We are aware of reports and visibility of immigration enforcement activity in our city and on campus. KU Public Safety has been notified and is working to gather additional information. At this time, we do not have confirmed details about the nature of any activity or whether it involved KU students or employees.

We understand from talking with our students that seeing or hearing about immigration agents in our community may cause stress, fear or worry. Those reactions are completely understandable, and it is normal to feel uneasy given the current situation. Please know that KU remains committed to an environment where all students are treated with dignity and respect and can pursue their education without discrimination or harassment, regardless of immigration status.

Maintaining your legal status is your best protection. ISS recommends you carry documents to verify your lawful presence.

For F-1 and J-1 international students, key documents to consider carrying are:

- I-94 (required by law)
- Passport or government-issued identification
- I-20 (F) or DS-2019 (J)

If you notice government law enforcement agents on campus, remain calm and respectful. Do not interfere. While you have the right to document and report the incident, for your own safety do not physically obstruct or interfere with the actions of government agents.

Notify Lawrence KU Police Department (KUPD) 785-864-5900.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or in need of additional support, the following KU resources are available:

- CAPS Urgent Care Service (confidential): Walk-in support during business hours; no appointment is required.
- Mantra Health (confidential): Virtual counseling support through CAPS.
- ISS Drop-In Services: Advisors are available for immigration-related questions and concerns.
- Legal Services for Students (confidential): Guidance is available regarding rights and procedures. By appointment they can provide free notarized copies of documents.
- If students would like to connect with other international students in a supportive space, the International Conversation Series can be an outlet to share concerns together: Friday, March 27, 10:00 a.m. in Watson Library Room 455). Sign up online to take part.

CAPS has provided the following self-care strategies you can practice at home:

  • Set time limits on how long you stay online.
  •  Stay connected with your supportive family, friends, and colleagues.
  •  Focus on your basic self-care routine: Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated. Get regular exercise. Make sleep a priority.
  •  Continue a routine or hobby that helps you be present in the moment and connect with your creativity and mother nature.
  •  Journal to let your emotions out, thank yourself for moving through the day, or give yourself the space and permission to vent and cry.

We appreciate your presence and we are here to support you. You are valued in our community. Our immediate focus is to verify facts and support you and the rest of our campus community. If we confirm information that materially affects the safety or rights of KU students or employees, we will share an update with you. In the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions.

Your ISS Team