University of Missouri says its international students will not be affected by new federal rule

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Leaders at the University of Missouri said Wednesday that their international students won't be affected by a new federal rule requiring such students to leave the country if classes are taught online only.

"First, we want to assure everyone that based on our current plans for the upcoming academic year, this rule does not apply to students enrolled at Mizzou," interim MU Chancellor Mun Choi and Provost Latha Ramchand said in an email to students. "We will be offering in-person and blended classes during the upcoming semester, so international Mizzou students are not required to leave the country."

The new federal rules say international students must take at least some of their classes in person. New visas will not be issued to students at schools or programs that are entirely online.

MU leaders said the Department of Homeland Security did not take into account the recommendations of higher education leaders. The decision has "caused a great deal of anxiety and concern for our entire community," MU leaders wrote.

The MU leaders pledged to support international students and provided links to services for such students in the email.

Many universities around the country have announced plans to have classes fully online in the fall.