Harvard University has issued a cautionary advisory to its incoming international students, warning them to be mindful of their social media content and personal electronic devices when entering the United States, a Bloomberg report said. The warning comes amid heightened scrutiny at US borders and increasing pressure from the Trump administration on the university’s international programs.
According to the Bloomberg report, the guidance was shared during a recent virtual support group call hosted by Harvard’s international office and the Harvard Law School immigration and refugee clinic. The call, held last week, included input from Maureen Martin, Harvard’s Director of Immigration Services and Jason Corral, a staff attorney with the clinic.
University officials told students that US State Department officials have the authority to examine the social media activity of student visa applicants. Additionally, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can inspect electronic devices at the port of entry and deny entry based on their contents. It remains unclear whether these assessments are conducted manually by federal employees or with the aid of artificial intelligence, the report further stated.
Students were also warned about potential “red flags” that could attract scrutiny. Although not explicitly defined, posts expressing pro-Palestine views, content perceived as anti-Semitic, or material critical of the US government were cited as likely to raise concerns. A history of minor legal troubles could also influence border officials’ decisions.
Significantly, Harvard officials cautioned students not to delete the contents of their devices entirely before travel, as this may appear suspicious to border agents, the Bloomberg report said.
Harvard advisory for students from Iran, China
The advisory included additional warnings for students from Iran and China, especially those studying in STEM fields or artificial intelligence. These students were urged to be particularly careful due to increased scrutiny. Jason Corral reportedly advised Iranian students to avoid flying into Boston’s Logan International Airport, where they may face heightened questioning. Instead, airports such as New York’s JFK, Chicago O’Hare or Los Angeles International were suggested as potentially less problematic alternatives.
This advisory also comes on the heels of Harvard’s recent legal victory, securing a preliminary injunction against the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict the enrollment of foreign students. However, the administration is appealing the decision.
Trump vs Harvard
In addition to challenging its international student programs, the Trump administration has revoked over $2.6 billion in research funding and questioned the university’s tax-exempt status. Initially accusing Harvard of fostering antisemitism, federal officials have expanded their critique to include allegations of political bias and opposition to diversity initiatives in admissions and hiring.