Know Your Rights
Know Your Rights
Know Your Rights
Immigrant and International Students
Rowan University is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students, which includes our international and immigrant student community. We understand that, as immigration policies change, many of you may feel uncertain or fearful about your educational journey, career, or living arrangements. This page provides resources to help you navigate these difficult circumstances.
Our "Know Your Rights" section offers essential information about your immigrant or international student rights and resources to help you stay informed and prepared.
What Should You Do If ICE Comes to Campus?
If you are worried about ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) on or off campus, knowing your rights and taking proactive steps is essential.
- National Immigration Law Center: Know Your Rights
This FAQ guide includes important steps, such as what information you are required to provide to law enforcement, when you should contact an attorney, and how to protect your privacy.
Know Your Rights – Legal Resources
It’s critical to understand your rights and access legal resources, especially if you believe you are at risk of deportation. This document provides information on how to handle encounters with law enforcement and where to find legal aid if needed.
- Know Your Rights – NJ Human Services: This resource outlines key rights for immigrants in the United States, including protection from unlawful searches, the right to remain silent, and access to legal counsel. It also provides links to legal resources in New Jersey.
Steps to Take Now
The Immigrant Legal Resource Center has outlined key actions that international or immigrant students can take to understand their rights and options.
- Know Your Rights and What Immigrant Families Should Do Now – ILRC:
This guide provides practical steps for immigrants to take right now, including how to document your rights, the importance of legal counsel, and how to prepare for an encounter with law enforcement.
Education Rights for Immigrant Students in New Jersey
Even though the guidance provided here primarily relates to K-12 education, it is important to be aware of your rights as an immigrant student in the educational system.
- School-Related State and Federal Requirements Pertaining to Immigrant Students and Families – NJDepartment of Education: This document provides information on immigrant students’ rights in schools, and although it is geared towards K-12, it may offer insights into the broader protections that might apply to students in higher education.
Other Resources for Immigrant and International Students
- ILRC Red Cards: The Center for Belonging & Student Engagement (BSE) has IRLC red cards available for pick-up in English and Spanish. The ILRC’s Red Cards help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations, such as when ICE agents go to a home. Additional languages can be printed upon request. Please contact piersond@rowan.edu for more information.
- Legal Aid Organizations: Some legal aid services specialize in immigration law. These organizations can provide legal advice or refer you to experienced immigration attorneys.
Additional Steps for International Students:
If you have specific questions about your student visa, employment authorization, or other issues related to your status at Rowan University, we encourage you to speak with an international student advisor in the International Center.
International Students are encouraged to keep a copy of their passport picture page, F-1 or J-1 visa page, and current I-20 (DS-2019 for J-1 students) with them at all times. International students traveling outside of New Jersey should carry their original documents. International students may consider avoiding unnecessary international travel prior to the end of the semester.
We Are Here for You The Center for Wellbeing team is here to provide support, share resources, and connect you with the appropriate legal and campus services. If you have any immediate concerns or would like to talk to someone about your rights, please don’t hesitate to contact us at sadlerk@rowan.edu to be connected to resources.