The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has notified Harvard University that it can no longer register international students, prompting those on campus to seek alternative arrangements.
Here are the key points about the situation:
Noem Criticizes Harvard
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced on Thursday that the department would revoke Harvard’s accreditation for its Student and Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP).
Noem stated, “This administration holds Harvard University accountable for fostering violence, anti-Semitism, and aligning with the Chinese Communist Party.” She emphasized that it’s not a privilege for universities to enroll international students and profit from their tuition, which contributes to billions in donations.
She expressed disappointment that the Ivy League institution had numerous chances to rectify its actions but failed to do so.
The DHS leader indicated that Harvard’s loss of SEVP accreditation serves as a cautionary message to other universities nationwide.
Harvard’s Response
In response, Harvard called the federal government’s actions “illegal.”
A university spokesperson stated, “Our commitment remains strong in maintaining Harvard’s capability to host international students who, in turn, contribute to the nation.” They also pointed out that the situation poses serious risks to the Harvard community and undermines its academic mission.
Impact on the Student Body
International students make up about 27.2% of Harvard’s student body, totaling 6,793 individuals, according to the university’s registration statistics.
For the 2025-2026 academic year, tuition at Harvard is set at $59,320, with total costs reaching nearly $87,000 when factoring in room and board. International students typically pay higher fees, as they do not qualify for federal financial assistance.
Harvard maintains a need-blind admissions policy, meaning that financial circumstances do not influence a student’s acceptance. The university asserts it meets 100% of demonstrated financial needs.
Potential Legal Actions
Sources indicate that Harvard may challenge the DHS decision in court.
Noem appeared to welcome the prospect of a lawsuit during a Thursday Fox News interview, stating, “I’m on the U.S. side, so go ahead and try.”
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), part of DHS, oversees the school’s SEVP certification, which allows educational institutions to issue I-20 forms to accepted foreign students.
This form certifies eligibility for non-immigrant status, enabling those students to apply for F-1 or J-1 visas to enter the U.S.
SEVP-certified schools are required to regularly update records and inform authorities about changes regarding student employment and addresses. They must reapply for SEVP certification every two years.
If Harvard loses this accreditation, international students would typically need to transfer to other institutions.
Noem Sends Warning to Other Schools
Noem cautioned on Thursday that DHS might pursue similar actions against other universities.
“We’re assessing institutions that promote environments conducive to learning, ensuring safety and inclusivity without discrimination,” she stated.
The Harvard administration has been under scrutiny recently regarding its records connected to international students and their visa situations.
The administration is exerting pressure on Ivy League schools to adjust their admission policies, eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, and intensifying efforts to combat anti-Semitism on campuses.
Back in April, over $2.6 billion in grants and contracts were frozen, and a $60 million grant expired this week. There are indications that Trump could revoke the universities’ tax-exempt status.
In retaliation, Harvard has filed a lawsuit against the administration, claiming it has exceeded its authority and demanding the restoration of funding.
