What led to the Trump administration blocking Harvard from enrolling international students?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the Trump administration has revoked Harvard's certification to enroll international students. This move raises serious questions about the future of international education at prestigious institutions. What are the implications for Harvard and its diverse student body? Read on for a detailed overview of this controversial decision.
Key Takeaways
- Harvard's certification revoked under SEVP.
- Future enrollment of international students halted.
- Existing international students must transfer or risk losing legal status.
- Harvard criticized the action as unlawful and harmful.
- Significant implications for international education in the U.S.
San Francisco, May 23 (NationPress) The administration of Donald Trump has officially revoked Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which effectively prevents the university from enrolling new international students.
Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced this decision on Thursday, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
In her statement, Noem remarked, "This serves as a cautionary note for all universities and academic institutions nationwide. Enrolling international students is a privilege, not an entitlement, and this privilege has been rescinded due to Harvard's continual noncompliance with federal regulations."
On social media platform X, Noem elaborated that in April, the administration had frozen $2.2 billion in federal funds for Harvard after the institution refused to comply with demands to abolish diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and assess international students based on ideological beliefs. As per university records, international students comprised over 27 percent of Harvard's student population for the fall 2023 semester. This administration is holding Harvard accountable for promoting violence, antisemitism, and alleged coordination with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus. It is a privilege, not a right, for universities to enroll foreign students and take advantage of their higher tuition fees to bolster their multibillion-dollar endowments. Harvard was given ample opportunity to act responsibly but chose not to. Consequently, they have lost their Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification due to their law violations. Let this be a warning to all universities and educational institutions across the nation.
However, in a letter addressed to Harvard, it was indicated that if the university aims to regain its Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification before the upcoming academic year, it must provide the necessary information within 72 hours.
The DHS mentioned that aside from prohibiting the enrollment of future international students, existing foreign students will need to transfer to retain their legal status.
This action by the Trump administration will compel current students to either transfer to different schools or risk losing their legal immigration status, according to the DHS announcement.
Harvard University has criticized this action as retaliatory and detrimental to the university's interests.
"This governmental measure is unlawful. We are dedicated to preserving Harvard's ability to host international students and scholars from over 140 countries, who significantly enrich both the university and the nation," stated the university.
"We are swiftly working to offer guidance and support to our community members. This retaliatory act poses severe risks to the Harvard community and our country, undermining Harvard's academic and research mission."
In April, US President Donald Trump referred to Harvard as a "joke" and suggested it should forfeit its government research contracts after the prestigious institution declined requests to submit to external political oversight.
"Harvard can no longer be deemed even a respectable educational institution, and should not be included in any list of the World's Great Universities or Colleges," Trump stated on his Truth Social platform.
He had warned of potentially banning the renowned educational institution from accepting foreign students unless it complied with the specified requirements as early as April.
Annually, between 500-800 Indian students and scholars attend Harvard, as per the university's official site.
Currently, there are 788 students from India enrolled at Harvard University.
Point of View
This decision by the Trump administration exemplifies the ongoing tensions between federal authorities and academic institutions. It raises critical issues about academic freedom and the rights of universities to manage their own enrollment processes. While compliance with federal regulations is essential, the implications of such punitive measures on the academic landscape are significant and widespread.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Harvard's SEVP certification revoked?
Harvard's certification was revoked due to its repeated failure to comply with federal laws, as stated by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.
What are the consequences for current international students at Harvard?
Current international students will need to transfer to another institution or risk losing their legal status in the U.S.
How many international students are currently enrolled at Harvard?
As of the fall 2023 semester, there are approximately 788 students from India, with international students making up over 27% of the student body.
What actions did the Trump administration take against Harvard prior to this decision?
In April, the Trump administration froze $2.2 billion in federal grants to Harvard after the university refused demands regarding diversity and inclusion programs.
What is Harvard's response to this certification revocation?
Harvard has described the government's action as unlawful and detrimental to its ability to host international students and scholars.
