World · India Bureau
US university faces federal inquiry over visa programme usage
Arizona State University has responded to a federal investigation into its use of the J-1 visa programme following public scrutiny from a prominent political figure. The university defended its practices as consistent with its status as a major research institution.
LSN India ·
Arizona State University (ASU) has addressed a federal probe into its administration of the J-1 visa programme, which facilitates international academic and cultural exchanges in the United States. The investigation was prompted after concerns were raised publicly about the university's visa practices.
The university issued a statement emphasizing its role as one of the largest research institutions in the country, suggesting that its scale and international engagement naturally involve significant visa programme participation. ASU maintained that its practices align with federal regulations and institutional guidelines.
The J-1 visa programme, administered by the US State Department, allows American institutions to host international scholars, researchers, and exchange visitors. Universities typically use the programme to bring faculty members and researchers from abroad to collaborate on academic projects.
Federal authorities have initiated a formal review to examine whether the university's visa practices comply with programme requirements and regulations. The university has committed to cooperating fully with the investigation, according to its response.
The inquiry underscores ongoing scrutiny of international visa programmes and their administration at American universities, particularly regarding compliance procedures and oversight mechanisms.