On May 22, 2025, the Trump administration revoked Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), effectively barring the institution from enrolling new international students and requiring current foreign students to transfer or risk losing their legal status. Politico+8Reuters+8The Harvard Crimson+8
Reasons Cited by the Administration
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), led by Secretary Kristi Noem, justified the action by accusing Harvard of fostering antisemitism, promoting anti-American sentiment, and allegedly collaborating with the Chinese Communist Party. Additionally, the administration claimed that Harvard failed to comply with requests for detailed records on international students' campus activities, including participation in protests. BILD+11Reuters+11The Guardian+11The Harvard Crimson
Harvard's Response
Harvard University condemned the revocation as "unlawful" and "retaliatory," asserting that the move threatens the institution's academic mission and the well-being of its international community. The university emphasized its commitment to supporting its international students and scholars, who contribute significantly to its diverse academic environment. The GuardianBBC
Broader Context
This action is part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration targeting elite academic institutions. Earlier, the administration froze over $2 billion in federal research funding to Harvard and threatened its tax-exempt status, citing concerns over the university's policies and alleged ideological biases. BBC+4@EconomicTimes+4Reuters+4Axios+6WSJ+6theweek.com+6
Legal and Political Implications
Harvard has initiated legal action against the federal government, arguing that the administration's measures constitute an overreach of authority and infringe upon academic freedom. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the autonomy of educational institutions and the rights of international students in the United States.
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