In a significant move that has sent ripples through the academic community, the Trump administration has revoked Harvard University’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), effectively barring the institution from enrolling international students. This decision affects approximately 6,800 foreign students currently enrolled at Harvard, representing over a quarter of the university’s total student body.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), led by Secretary Kristi Noem, announced the revocation on Thursday, citing Harvard’s refusal to comply with federal demands for information on international students’ activities and its alleged failure to address concerns about campus safety and ideological bias. According to DHS, Harvard’s actions have fostered an environment that is “hostile to Jewish students” and have allowed “anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators” to operate on campus .
The Trump administration has long criticized Harvard for what it perceives as a liberal bias and has previously threatened to withhold federal funding and revoke the university’s tax-exempt status. In response to the SEVP decertification, Harvard issued a statement condemning the action as unlawful and politically motivated, asserting its commitment to academic freedom and due process .
The revocation of SEVP certification means that Harvard can no longer issue the necessary documentation for international students to obtain F-1 or J-1 visas, effectively halting the admission of new foreign students. Current international students are now faced with the prospect of transferring to other institutions or leaving the United States, potentially jeopardizing their academic and professional futures.
Legal experts anticipate that Harvard will challenge the decision in court, arguing that the revocation violates constitutional protections and established legal procedures. The outcome of such legal proceedings could have far-reaching implications for the relationship between federal authorities and higher education institutions.
This development has sparked widespread concern among international students, faculty, and academic organizations. Critics argue that the decision undermines the principles of academic freedom and could deter future international students from pursuing education in the United States. Supporters of the administration’s actions contend that universities must be held accountable for ensuring campus safety and adhering to federal regulations.
As the situation unfolds, Harvard is working to support its international community and explore legal avenues to reverse the decision. The broader implications of this move will likely continue to be a topic of debate and scrutiny in the coming weeks.
