Harvard’s Authority to Register International Students Revoked by Trump
In a notable decision, President Trump has revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students under the Student and Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP), effective immediately. The university faces these restrictions unless specific criteria are fulfilled within a 72-hour timeframe.
The conditions imposed by the government are quite stringent. They require Harvard to submit comprehensive records—everything from e-records to audio or video evidence—related to any illegal, dangerous, or violent activities involving non-immigrant students registered at the institution over the past five years. Moreover, records concerning any threats made by these students against other students or university staff must also be included. Past disciplinary actions against non-immigrant students, as well as any footage of protests involving them, are also required.
The message from the government makes it clear: if Harvard wishes to restore its ability to register international students before the next academic year, all requested information must be provided within three days.
Currently, Harvard hosts over 6,000 international students, making up about 27.3% of its student body. Records indicate that annually, between 500 and 800 Indian students enroll in various programs at the university, with around 788 currently pursuing advanced studies.
This action comes amid an ongoing investigation of universities by the Trump administration, which has cited concerns regarding the university’s handling of violence, anti-Semitism, and alleged collaboration with the Chinese Communist Party on campus matters. The administration asserts that the university’s privilege to enroll international students is not a right but rather a benefit that must be justified by compliance with federal regulations.
Harvard’s Response
In quick response to the government’s letter, Harvard denounced the move as illegal. The university expressed that this decision represents a retaliatory measure that could inflict significant harm. Harvard emphasized its commitment to fostering an international environment, noting the value that students from over 140 countries bring to both the university and the broader community.
