The Trump administration has taken a drastic step by revoking Harvard University's authorization to enroll international students, citing the institution’s non-compliance with specific federal demands.
Effective immediately, Harvard can no longer admit new international stud ents, and current foreign students must either transfer or risk losing their legal status in the United States, according to a statement issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Thursday.
This decision deals a significant blow to Harvard, especially as thousands of international students were preparing to begin their academic journey at the prestigious institution. One incoming freshman from New Zealand described the development as a deeply distressing “heart drop” moment.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the university’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification was terminated due to Harvard’s refusal to submit conduct records for its international students, a request made by DHS in April.
The policy shift could affect over 25% of Harvard’s student body, leaving many in uncertainty and fear. Faculty members have warned that losing such a large portion of international talent could diminish Harvard’s academic strength and reputation.
The White House defended the move, framing the enrollment of foreign students as a privilege, not a right, and accused Harvard of becoming a “hotbed of anti-American and antisemitic activity.” The administration also criticized the school’s approach to diversity programs and its response to protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Despite previously adopting some changes, such as renaming its diversity office, Harvard has resisted demands to overhaul its hiring and programming based on ideological scrutiny. The university argues that such demands infringe on its constitutional rights.
DHS has given Harvard 72 hours to submit five years of records on international students’ protest-related activities. Failure to comply will maintain the SEVP ban. Meanwhile, the administration has also frozen $2.2 billion in federal funds and is reportedly considering stripping Harvard of its tax-exempt status.
Harvard, which hosts nearly 7,000 international students, condemned the action as illegal and retaliatory. It emphasized its commitment to academic freedom and support for its global community, vowing to fight the measures through legal and institutional avenues.
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