Waterloo Times

FOIA Request to University of Northern Iowa regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.

The Waterloo Times has submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the University of Northern Iowa. The request, sent under the Iowa Open Records Law § 22.1 et seq, seeks detailed information about Chinese National students currently enrolled at the university. The request aims to gather data in an electronic format for ease of access and analysis.

The FOIA request specifically asks for documents or lists that identify all current students who are Chinese Nationals and their respective departments of study. If individual names are protected, the request suggests providing a total count of such students and breaking it down by department. Additionally, it seeks information on scholarships received by these students, including amounts and sources. A particular interest is shown in scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.

Furthermore, the request includes a demand for any policies or procedures that describe how the university monitors its students, including Chinese Nationals, to safeguard intellectual property and other confidential information.

This inquiry is part of an effort by The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, which collaborates with media organizations like Waterloo Times to investigate governmental agencies using transparency laws. More details about this coalition can be found on their website here.

We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.