On Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security made a significant move by blocking Harvard University from enrolling international students. This action also terminated Harvard’s certification in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, a crucial designation that allows universities to admit foreign students. The decision is part of an ongoing conflict between the Trump administration and Harvard, particularly over recent protests on campus.
This decision was hinted at in a letter from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, dated April 16. In the letter, she pointed out that Harvard relies heavily on the financial contributions from its international students, who number over 10,000. Noem expressed concern that the university had created an unwelcoming environment for Jewish students by not adequately addressing antisemitism on campus.
According to Harvard’s own data, international students make up about a quarter of its student body. The university quickly responded to the DHS’s decision by filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration in federal court. Harvard’s lawsuit argues that international students are vital to its identity and mission. The legal filing states, "With the stroke of a pen, the government has sought to erase a quarter of Harvard’s student body, international students who contribute significantly to the university and its mission. Without its international students, Harvard is not Harvard."
In addition to the concerns about antisemitism, conservative activist Chris Rufo has raised issues regarding allegations of discrimination against white men at Harvard. This comes in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in SFFA v. Harvard, which prohibited affirmative action in college admissions.
The situation is evolving, and Harvard’s legal battle with the federal government will likely draw significant attention as it unfolds. The outcome could have wide-ranging implications for the university and its approach to international students in the future.