Harvard University has been stripped of its power to admit foreign students by the Trump administration, in a decision that impacts 6,800 international students and raises fresh concerns related to academic freedom. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Thursday blamed the university for failing to maintain a safe campus, given anti-American protests and alleged violence against Jews.
Harvard was further accused of uniting with the Chinese Communist Party, specifically training members of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps in 2024. ”Harvard can no longer enroll foreign students, and those currently studying must transfer or face loss of legal status,” DHS stated in a statement. The decision cancels Harvard’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, which is necessary for student visas.
University calls the action illegal and retaliatory
In a firm, worded response, Harvard called the government’s move illegal and politically motivated. ”This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission,” the university mentioned. It further added that it is working immediately to guide the affected students.
The sanctions have taken place after a letter was sent from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, in which it was asked for data on foreign students who are involved in the protests. Noem stated that the penalty resulted because Harvard refused to provide detailed records, including surveillance clips. She also gave the University 72 hours to regain its certification. ”We are holding Harvard accountable for fostering violence, antisemitism, and cooperating with the Chinese Communist Party,” Noem mentioned.
Critics across academic and civil liberties organizations criticised the decision. The President of the American Council on Education, Ted Mitchell, termed it a ”chilling overreach”. He also cautioned that it could discourage international students from opting for the US for education. The foundation for Individual Rights and Expression asserted that the DHS demand led to ”a surveillance state” that violates protected expression.
The Trump administration’s crackdown is a broader campaign against elite institutions. Harvard has already experienced the loss of $2.6 billion in federal grants. President Trump has also pushed to cancel the University’s tax-exempt status.
(With inputs from Associated Press)