How Trump’s Ban on Foreign Student Enrolment at Harvard Affects Students

The administration provided a 72-hour window to reverse the order. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) demanded Harvard comply with strict regulations and submit international students’ conduct records. Harvard rejected these requests, filed a lawsuit against the administration, and risks losing federal grants. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem ordered the rejection of international student and exchange visitor program certifications.

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson stated, “They have repeatedly failed to address widespread issues impacting American students and must face the consequences.” The administration cited Harvard’s failure to provide international admission records. Ongoing conflicts, including campus protests over the Israel-Hamas war, may have influenced this decision. Many U.S. universities face similar demands, putting foreign students at risk.

Harvard’s 2024-25 enrollment data shows 6,800 international students, comprising 27% of the student body, up 19.7% from 2010-11. Students and alumni raised concerns, prompting Executive Vice President Meredith Weenick to issue a letter assuring compliance with legal requirements and urging students to focus on their studies. Harvard’s legal team is building a case to challenge the federal government, promising justice for international students’ right to education.