Harvard Loses Federal Grant Eligibility
Education Secretary Linda McMahon has declared that Harvard University is no longer eligible for a new federal grant after it dismissed the Trump administration’s resolution proposal.
The Department of Education informed Harvard that it was under a “systematic pattern of violating federal law.” The accusations included not complying with civil rights laws by improperly using race in admission processes and failing to protect Jewish students on campus.
The letter argued that Harvard, which benefits from billions in taxpayer money each year, possesses an impressive $53.2 billion in tax-exempt donations—more than the GDP of many countries. It suggested that the university could operate without federal funding, relying instead on its vast donations and influential alumni.
In correspondence shared on social media, McMahon criticized Ivy League schools for admitting international students who, in the administration’s view, display violence and exhibit anti-American sentiments. Previous letters urged Harvard to reconsider its approach to recruiting international students, especially after several were deported for participating in violent anti-Semitic protests at other campuses.
“Harvard shouldn’t be pursuing federal grants since they aren’t entitled to them,” McMahon stated in a post. “Receiving taxpayer funds is a privilege, not a right.”
Harvard has not responded to inquiries about this situation. The institution faces scrutiny for allegedly not addressing anti-Semitism and for its admissions policies, which, according to the administration, violate a Supreme Court ruling restricting the use of race in college admissions.
Reports from a council investigation indicated that Harvard had failed to address issues concerning nearly 70 students involved in protests last spring. The university is also under pressure from the Department of Education and other agencies to tackle anti-Semitism and enhance its processes regarding international students with “hostile” attitudes.
In an April letter, Harvard agreed to undertake reforms but insisted on its commitment to academic freedom. Despite a pledge from Harvard President Alan Gerber to confront anti-Semitism, the university maintains its critical stance toward the Trump administration’s actions.
A report revealed that more than a quarter of Jewish students at Harvard felt “physically unsafe,” with nearly 60% reporting experiences of discrimination or negative biases associated with anti-Israel sentiments.
Several federal agencies have already withdrawn a $2 billion grant from Harvard, and former President Trump has mentioned the possibility of revoking the school’s tax-exempt status.
