China has strongly condemned the Trump administration’s recent move to prohibit Harvard University from enrolling international students, asserting its commitment to defending the rights of Chinese students studying abroad.
During a press conference on Friday, a Chinese official stated, “China and the US education cooperation benefits both. We oppose the politicization of educational ties. What the US is attempting will surely tarnish the world’s reputation.”
She further emphasized, “China will steadfastly protect the legal rights of Chinese students and academics overseas.”
On Thursday, Homeland Security Secretary Christy Noem directed the removal of Harvard from the accreditation of its Student and Exchange Visitor Programs (SEVP).
The revocation of SEVP certification means that thousands of students now face the difficult choice of transferring to other institutions or risking their legal status in the country.
Noem claimed the administration is addressing issues related to violence, anti-Semitism, and alleged collaborations with the Chinese Communist Party on campuses, describing the ability for SEVP-certified universities to register foreign students as “a privilege, not a right,” while noting that they financially benefit from high tuition fees.
Harvard enrolled 6,793 international undergraduate students for the 2024-2025 academic year, with over 1,200 being Chinese nationals, according to the university’s registration data.
In reaction, Harvard asserted that the actions taken by DHS were “illegal,” insisting that it has welcomed international students from over 140 countries and remains committed to enriching both the university and the nation.
A spokesperson for Harvard stated, “We are moving quickly to support and guide our community. This retaliatory measure poses significant risks to Harvard’s community and undermines our academic and research missions.”
Noem mentioned that the ban on Harvard should act as a cautionary example for other universities across the country.
“Absolutely. This should serve as a warning for all other universities to reconsider their actions,” Noem told Fox News’ Gillian Turner.
She urged institutions to ensure their programs foster safe learning environments free from discrimination based on race or religion.
