Actions were planned at dozens of schools, including Yale in Connecticut and Rutgers in New Jersey, with organizers pushing for their schools to become havens for people who may face deportation and rallying supporters on social media with the hashtag #SanctuaryCampus.
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Yale student organizer Ramon Garibaldo says the actions are inspired by demonstrations that broke out at high schools around the country last week following the Republican's presidential election victory.
Trump's campaign promises included a vow to deport millions of people who are in the U.S. illegally.
"We all deserve a chance to be a part of this community," student Maxilla Desir said. "We all deserve a chance to be a part of America. And if America is (built) off the backbones of immigrants, why do we not support immigrants?"
The walkouts are being organized by local student groups with the support of Movimiento Cosecha (Harvest Movement), which fights for "permanent protection, dignity and respect" for immigrants.
"I came out here because I believe in human rights," professor Gerald Golden said. "I believe that every person has a right to be treated with dignity and respect."
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There are also concerns about Trump's treatment of women.
"We're based on equal rights for all humans," student Michelle Tobon said. "It doesn't make sense that this man was allowed to get into this position of higher power."
Trump supporters came out for a counter demonstration, as well, believing their voices also needed to be heard.
"I don't feel we're the minority any longer," student Brandon Riso said. "On a university campus, maybe, but for the rest of the country, no. It's just a microcosm. We're letting our presence be known. We belong here."