Luther Seminary’s international students will be able to continue their studies in the fall and will not be forced to leave.
On July 6, the Department of Homeland Security had announced that it would not renew its exemption allowing international students to take online courses. International students who could not complete their studies through either hybrid or in-person instruction would be required to suspend their studies and return to their home countries. That policy was rescinded on Tuesday.
Even if the policy had remained in place, Luther Seminary had determined that our existing plans for fall instruction meet the unique hybrid requirements that DHS had outlined. More details are being sought about the current policy.
Our international brothers and sisters in Christ are vital members of our community. Their contributions are critical to the life and identity of our school and mission. We are grateful for all of the support that the seminary’s community has offered them. We particularly give thanks for the service and leadership that Marie Hayes and Chenar Howard have provided this month as they worked with our international students and the DHS to find a solution.