Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration Decision Barring Foreign Student Enrollment at Harvard
A federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration’s decision to revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students. The decision to pull Harvard’s certification in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, which allows the university to host international students with visas to study in the U.S., was halted by the court order.
Harvard filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts, arguing that the government’s action violates the First Amendment and would have immediate and devastating effects on Harvard and more than 7,000 visa holders. The university stated in its lawsuit that the government’s move would essentially erase a quarter of Harvard’s student body, which includes international students who make significant contributions to the university’s mission.
The lawsuit also highlighted the impact on international students who run labs, teach courses, assist professors, and participate in Harvard sports. With the threat of losing legal status if they remain in the country, these students are now faced with the decision to transfer or risk their future.
The move has caused chaos on campus just days before graduation, particularly affecting graduate schools like the Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School, where a significant portion of the student body is international. The decision also blocks thousands of students who were planning to attend summer and fall classes at Harvard.
Harvard emphasized that the government’s action puts the university at a disadvantage in attracting top international students, as future applicants may be deterred from applying due to fear of further reprisals. If the decision stands, Harvard would be unable to admit new international students for at least the next two academic years, impacting the university’s global reputation and diversity.
The Department of Homeland Security had accused Harvard of creating an unsafe campus environment by allowing “anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators” to assault Jewish students and of coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party. Harvard President Alan Garber denied these allegations and stated that the university has implemented measures to combat antisemitism and will uphold its core principles.
The threat to Harvard’s international enrollment arose from a request from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, demanding information about foreign students that could lead to their deportation. Harvard provided extensive data in response, but Noem’s subsequent letter accused the university of failing to satisfy her demands without further explanation.
In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit challenging the administration’s decision, arguing that it violated government regulations for withdrawing a school’s certification. The university stated that the government’s justification for the action was unsubstantiated and lacked rational links to the decision.
The lawsuit against the Trump administration’s decision to block foreign student enrollment at Harvard is separate from the university’s ongoing legal battle challenging federal budget cuts imposed by the administration. Harvard remains committed to defending its international student community and upholding its values as it navigates this legal dispute.
