International Education Matters

A Forum for Issues Pertaining to
Intensive English Programs

"Education and National Security"
New York Times
June 23, 2003

Secretary of State Colin Powell recently announced that nearly all foreigners seeking entry to the United States would have to undergo in-person interviews. The idea, of course, is to detect and deter potential terrorists. The problem is that we are more than halfway through June, and the new term begins in August at many American universities. Thousands of foreigners hoping to study here will not make it in time. A compromise is needed.

The presidents of four major higher education groups have sent Mr. Powell a letter asking him to delay the interview requirement so that American consulates can prepare for the task. In addition, they suggest that the State Department phase in the interviews, starting with countries thought to pose an immediate risk. These are good suggestions.

Better control of our borders is clearly warranted, and much has already been done to reform the visa-granting process. Background checks are now routine, whereas prior to 9/11, they were not mandatory. Before, nonresidents could start taking classes while approval for a student visa was pending. This was chillingly brought home when student visas for two of the Sept. 11 hijackers arrived at their flight school months after they had flown airplanes into the twin towers. Communication has also been increased between colleges and government agencies to keep track of foreign nationals studying here. In-person interviews would add another line of defense, but they are being implemented too hastily.

Keeping the United States accessible, rather than bureaucratically impenetrable, is an important key to American security. Welcoming students from all over the world to study in the United States will not only help us learn about the perspectives of other societies, but also demystify the United States for those who return home and become leaders and professionals. Such an exchange is also a vital tool for ensuring national security.

Used with permission of The New York Times.

This file was updated on November 8, 2003