Harvard blocked from enrolling foreign students as Trump administration escalates clash over campus activism

Harvard University has been stripped of its ability to enroll international students after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security accused it of fostering antisemitism and refusing federal oversight, marking a major escalation in the Trump administration’s crackdown on elite universities.

In a significant escalation of tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard University, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has revoked the university's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This action, announced on May 22, 2025, prohibits Harvard from enrolling international students and mandates that current foreign students transfer to other institutions or face loss of legal status.Reuters

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem justified the decision by accusing Harvard of fostering a "hostile learning environment" for Jewish students, promoting antisemitism, and allegedly coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party. She also criticized the university for failing to comply with federal reporting requirements and for not providing requested records on foreign students, including information on their involvement in protests and any disciplinary actions taken. 

In response, Harvard condemned the DHS's actions as unlawful and retaliatory. The university emphasized its commitment to supporting its international community and pledged to assist affected students during this transition. Harvard also stated that it would continue to challenge the decision through legal avenues. 

This development marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy concerning higher education institutions and underscores the administration's broader campaign against what it perceives as anti-American activities on college campuses. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for other universities and international students nationwide.

Copied