Foothill + De Anza Colleges | Silicon Valley, CA

Messages of Support for F-1 Students

We are aware of a recent update released by SEVP regarding the ability of F-1 students to maintain their status in the fall if enrolled in all online courses. We are working hard to interpret the new guidelines, gather additional information, and collaborate with campus administration so that we can provide clear guidance to you about your options for fall quarter. We will post and email this guidance as soon as possible. Please know that we are here to support you during this time, we value you, and you are welcome here! Please read messages of support from our campus leaders below.
 
Statement of Dr. Judy C. Miner, district chancellor

International students are essential to the vibrant culture at Foothill College and De Anza College and have been for many years. Our district is deeply disturbed by the new guidance from the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the significant impact it has on our international student community. We will join state and national efforts that oppose these draconian measures. 

We are working to find options that will allow international students to continue preparing for university transfer and careers at Foothill and De Anza colleges during the upcoming academic year. I am confident that we will have options available to protect our students' eligibility to study with us. A number of creative ideas have already emerged and we will have more information to share in the coming days.

Our faculty, staff and students value being part of a global family and our community college district will fight to continue that tradition. To our international students, please know that you are welcome here, that we appreciate all that you bring to college life, and that we are working to ensure your continued presence at Foothill and De Anza colleges.


A Message to Our International Students from De Anza College President Lloyd Holmes 

We strongly disagree with this short-sighted rule, which immediately created uncertainty, stress and hardship for you, our international students, and our college as a whole. 

As international students, you are an integral part of our diverse college community, contributing unique experiences and perspectives to the educational experience that De Anza offers to all students. This new directive from the Trump Administration puts you in a grossly unfair position.

De Anza College has been following local, state and federal health guidelines in providing online instruction to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. This new requirement seems designed to pressure colleges into providing in-person instruction. It is essential that the college retain the flexibility to provide instruction in ways that best serve students, and help ensure their safety. We are actively exploring all options to ensure that you can continue receiving an outstanding education from De Anza College, while protecting your health, and that of our resident students, faculty and staff.


A Message to International Students from Foothill College President Thuy Thi Nguyen

Dear Foothill International Students, 

Many of you may have heard the recent Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP) announcement that F-1 international students may not take a full course load online and remain in the U.S. this fall. I wanted to reach out to you and let you know that Foothill College is actively exploring all options that would allow you to maintain your status for the 2020/21 academic year. We will email you as soon as we have more definite information and clear guidance on your choices for fall 2020. 

In the meantime, please reach out to our International Programs Office with any questions or concerns.

The faculty, staff, and administrators of Foothill College value our International Students and appreciate all your contributions to our campus and we will do everything we can to meet your needs and support your educational experience while also prioritizing your health and safety. This decision affects students across the state and the country. We are working closely with the Chancellor's Office to provide you the best options and assistance for the quarter. We will continue to update you as we receive new information. 

Sincerely,

Thuy Thi Nguyen