Uncertain time for international students at universities in the US

Regarding Anam Rizvi’s report UAE students voice concern after US warns learners may have to leave country if classes remain online (July 7): this is not a smart move. Donald Trump wants to open universities so he can say that they’re open thanks to him and that the pandemic has ‘disappeared’. Universities desperately need the tuition fees of foreign students. And students can’t interrupt their studies and risk losing many credits and courses that other universities might not accept, even if these poor students find other universities to transfer to that will accept them.

Linda MacConnell, Abu Dhabi

This is an irrational step. I am about to lose half my friends here. Economically, for the US, I don’t understand what sense this makes.

Zaid Haddad, Florida

If the purpose is to get an education then it shouldn’t matter if you’re back home or in US. One of the student visa conditions is the student is only allowed to have one online class (three credits) and the rest have to be in person. The US government does not want students hanging doing nothing or taking jobs illegally. If I was in these students’ shoes I wouldn’t mind being back home with my family, studying online and still getting a US education.

Koko Al, New York

This move doesn’t make sense. The students are not on welfare.

Yulia Hulia, Dubai

I suppose students could continue to study online from their home country without the cost of accommodation and other living expenses while in the US.

Randall Mohammed, Dubai