After Outrage, UMass Reverses Ban on Iranian Students Taking Science Classes

Following a barrage of criticism, the University of Massachusetts on Wednesday reversed its decision to ban Iranian students from taking science classes at its flagship campus.

UMass announced the ban at its Amherst campus earlier this month, claiming allowing Iranian students to take science courses could violate federal law. The theory is that those students could then go back to Iran to work on that country’s nuclear program.

The policy announcement was met with outrage from Iranian-Americans.

“We strongly urge that you immediately reverse this harmful, discriminatory, and unnecessary action,” wrote Jamal Abdi, policy director for the National Iranian American Council, in a letter to UMass officials. “(The decision) to self-enforce U.S. visa restrictions above and beyond the terms of the law is harmful and counterproductive.”

On Wednesday, the university rescinded the policy after consulting with State Department officials.

“This approach reflects the university’s longstanding commitment to wide access to educational opportunities,” said Michael Malone, vice chancellor for research and engagement, in a statement. “We have always believed that excluding students from admission conflicts with our institutional values and principles. It is now clear, after further consultation and deliberation, that we can adopt a less restrictive policy.”

• UMass’ policy banning Iranian students from taking science classes
• Jamal Abdi’s letter demanding that UMass reverse the policy
• UMass’ reversal decision

Photo credit: hercampus.com