The Trump administration has taken strong action against Harvard University by revoking its ability to enroll international students.
This move, which could impact thousands of students, comes after the Ivy League school reportedly failed to provide student conduct records requested by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification had been terminated.
Therefore, international students currently enrolled must transfer or risk losing their legal immigration status.
“This serves as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country,” DHS said in a public statement.
The conflict began when Harvard reportedly declined to submit requested information concerning the conduct of certain foreign students.
In a letter to the university, Noem accused Harvard of “perpetuating an unsafe campus environment that is hostile to Jewish students, promotes pro-Hamas sympathies, and employs racist diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.”
Meanwhile, Harvard responded with strong opposition, calling the move unlawful and damaging.
University spokesperson Jason Newton stated, “We are working quickly to provide guidance and support to members of our community.
This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission.”
The university is known for its large international population, with 6,793 international students making up 27.2% of the 2024–2025 academic year enrollment.
In addition, Harvard supports a wider international academic community of 9,970 individuals.
Harvard economics professor Jason Furman described the decision as “horrendous on every level.”
He added, “It is impossible to imagine Harvard without our amazing international students.
They benefit innovation and U.S. global influence.
Higher education is one of America’s greatest exports and a pillar of our soft power.
I hope this is reversed before irreparable damage is done.”
However, the White House remains firm in its decision.
“Enrolling foreign students is a privilege, not a right,” said White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson.
“Harvard has turned their once-great institution into a hotbed of pro-terrorist agitators.
They have failed to take meaningful action, and now they must face the consequences.”
This policy shift signals that the government is no longer willing to overlook what it sees as defiance and unsafe practices from elite universities.
Nonetheless, the administration appears set on sending a message that noncompliance and perceived bias will no longer be tolerated.
While Harvard fights to protect its students, the future of many hangs in the balance.
