The core functions of the daily operations we have here at UVM remain largely unchanged. Interim President Prelock has created an Operations Team for Federal Response task force to help navigate the current moment and to ensure that UVM’s decisions and policies help position our community for sustainable success. This task force is working on four key areas: Research, Immigration, Our Common Ground, and Faculty Affairs. We continue to remain rooted in Our Common Ground values to promote the inclusion of everyone at UVM.
The following FAQs will be updated as new information becomes available. Please check back frequently for the latest information.
(Updated on 3/26/2025)
Back to Federal Actions pageOffice of International Education FAQs
Families and Current Admitted Students
Will my student's merit scholarship be secure for all four years despite potential federal funding changes?
At this time, UVM merit scholarship terms and conditions have not changed and will be honored provided the student continues to meet the scholarship terms and conditions detailed in the original scholarship offer.
Will federal student aid be interrupted?
We know of no planned future action to pause, cut, or eliminate federal student aid. If we learn of any such action, Student Financial Services will contact affected students directly.
What is the status of federal research funding at UVM? How will UVM respond if funding is cut?
UVM is a research university and continues to engage in grant-funded research. The university is closely monitoring potential changes in funding and is working with research team members whose projects require adjustments. Contingency plans are underway to address longer-term consequences should major losses in funding occur in NIH and other federal research agencies.
What is UVM doing to protect DEI initiatives?
UVM is following federal actions closely and will continue to operate consistent with the law. UVM values diversity of thought and experience and seeks to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all guided by Our Common Ground values – respect, integrity, innovation, openness, justice, responsibility. Current federal actions do not alter these values.
Do I need to be concerned about my intended major being cut?
The curriculum at UVM falls under faculty governance and any changes to the curriculum or majors are vetted through an extensive review process. At this time, no program cuts in response to federal actions are being considered.
Will I/my student be safe at UVM? Are LGBTQ+ supports going to change?
Campus safety is paramount to the functioning of UVM. Furthermore, the University of Vermont maintains a deep commitment to fostering an environment in which all members of our community feel respected and valued, regardless of any aspect of one's identity. UVM policy prohibits discrimination and harassment based on gender identity and sexual orientation. Specifically, the protection of sexual orientation is in place at the federal and state level, and gender identity as a protected class is enshrined in Vermont law. UVM will continue to provide opportunities for affinity and engagement for all members of our community.
Are ADA accommodations going to be supported?
UVM is firmly committed to supporting students with disabilities through its Office of Accessibility. The Office engages in a robust interactive process to identify and respond to students’ individual needs. Students may reach out to the Office to begin that process at any time and need not wait until they are physically on campus.
We plan to fly through Montreal to get to campus, will we be able to cross the border?
UVM encourages you to monitor and follow discussions related to our borders before travelling. For those holding US citizenship, crossing a border should not pose a barrier. For those holding other kinds of citizenship, please ensure that you are aware of any required Canadian and/or US visa and other documentation requirements.
As an international student, will UVM be able to support me in obtaining appropriate immigration documents for study?
UVM's Office of International Education (OIE) will reach out to you via email after you have confirmed that you will enroll at UVM. You will receive instructions about how to request an immigration document in iStart or tell OIE about an existing immigration status.
What is UVM’s policy on protests?
UVM promotes a community of inquiry and has respect for freedom of expression. Student protests and other forms of dissent are allowed, within the confines of the law and university policy. Students choosing to engage in protests should be aware of university policies. Failure to abide by university policies will result in referral to the student conduct process. Violations of law are subject to law enforcement action.
I have read that international students elsewhere have been threatened with deportation by the federal government for engaging in campus protests. Will UVM's policies on protests protect international students from deportation?
As stated, student protests and other forms of dissent are allowed, within the confines of the law and university policy. Failure to abide by university policies will result in referral to the student conduct process. Violations of law are subject to law enforcement action. UVM cannot provide legal guidance or representation for individuals regarding immigration enforcement or demonstrations. Participation is an individual choice and should be weighed against potential consequences.