The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students, a move that jeopardizes the legal status of nearly 6,800 foreign students—over a quarter of the student body. Announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the decision targets one of the world’s most renowned academic institutions and adds fuel to the administration’s ongoing clash with elite U.S. universities.
Why Did the Government Act?
According to Secretary Noem, Harvard failed to submit requested documentation regarding its international students. She accused the university of fostering a campus environment that is “hostile to Jewish students,” promoting pro-Hamas sentiments, and enforcing “racist” diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.
What Exactly Was Done?
Harvard’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has been revoked. This means the university can no longer enroll new foreign students, and current international students must either transfer to another institution or risk losing their legal immigration status.
Can Harvard Reverse the Ban?
Possibly. The Department of Homeland Security has given Harvard 72 hours to comply with specific demands in order to reinstate its SEVP certification. These demands include submitting disciplinary records for international students and providing audio and video recordings of campus protests.
How Has Harvard Responded?
Harvard has called the action “unlawful” and a direct threat to its academic mission. The university stated it is working to support affected students and emphasized that the decision undermines not just Harvard, but the integrity of the U.S. higher education system as a whole.
Is This a Common Occurrence?
No. Education experts describe the revocation as “unprecedented.” Sarah Spreitzer of the American Council on Education noted, “I’ve never seen it revoked for anything beyond routine administrative issues.”
What Happens to Current International Students?
Graduating students may still receive their degrees, but those who haven’t finished must transfer elsewhere or face deportation. The decision has triggered widespread fear among students. “Everyone’s panicking,” one student told AFP. Another added, “It’s scary and saddening. Getting into Harvard was the greatest privilege of my life.”
Is This Part of a Broader Pattern?
Yes. The move is consistent with previous actions by the Trump administration, including freezing $3 billion in research funding and openly criticizing Harvard’s leadership. Secretary Noem warned that similar actions could follow at other universities, citing Columbia University as a potential next target.
What Are the Broader Implications?
For Harvard, the loss of international students represents both an academic and financial blow, as these students contribute significantly to tuition revenue and global research collaboration. The revocation also raises questions for other universities dependent on international enrollment.
What Legal Grounds Does the Government Have?
Under federal law, the Department of Homeland Security has the authority to certify institutions for SEVP. Secretary Noem emphasized that hosting international students is “a privilege, not a right.”
How Are Critics Responding?
The decision has sparked sharp criticism. Ted Mitchell of the American Council on Education called it “illegal” and “small-minded,” while a Harvard student group labeled the move “textbook authoritarianism.”
What Comes Next?
Harvard is likely to challenge the decision in court, as it has with previous actions by the Trump administration. Legal experts suggest that changes to student visa programs must comply with formal procedures, setting the stage for another legal battle.
