The Umbrella Organisation of Luxembourg Student Associations (ACEL) is advising Luxembourg students against pursuing studies in the United States, following the Trump administration’s decision to temporarily suspend student visas for foreign nationals.
The policy shift stems partly from an ongoing dispute between the White House and Harvard University. President Donald Trump has accused Harvard and other institutions of promoting “radical leftist” ideologies, leading to heightened scrutiny of international students as potential security risks.
The tensions escalated after pro-Palestinian protests at several US campuses, which the administration has characterised as “antisemitic”. Harvard has become a particular target after refusing to implement new government guidelines, resulting in funding cuts and bans on admitting foreign students. The measures have now been extended nationwide.
“Given these developments, we’re recommending students consider European or other alternatives,” ACEL Vice-President Laurent Schengen told our colleagues from RTL Radio on Wednesday. He cautioned, however, that the volatile situation could change rapidly.
Luxembourg students currently enrolled at US universities risk visa revocation under the Trump administration’s heightened scrutiny, Schengen warned. Describing the situation as “very depressing,” Schengen noted “extremely high” anxiety among affected students, with even minor infractions, such as parking violations, but also participation in protests, potentially triggering deportation.
The organisation also reports growing concerns over digital surveillance, citing cases where social media activity led to government reports, including instances where private conversations were denounced by peers. The US government has plans to implement systematic checks of what students post online in the future.
While students can currently leave the US without issue, Schengen acknowledged widespread fear about re-entry, leading some to postpone returning to Luxembourg until completing their degrees.
The US Embassy in Luxembourg confirmed visa applications remain open but emphasised holders must “adhere to US law” during routine checks to maintain status.
