Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against the US government. The suit challenges the revocation of its certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This certification allowed Harvard to sponsor F-1 and J-1 visas for international students and scholars. The revocation applies to the 2025–26 academic year. The decision affects more than 7,000 visa holders.
Harvard Accuses Government of Retaliation
Harvard President Dr Alan M Garber issued a statement condemning the federal government’s move. He said, “We condemn this unlawful and unwarranted action. It imperils the futures of thousands of students and scholars across Harvard and serves as a warning to countless others at colleges and universities throughout the country who have come to America to pursue their education and fulfill their dreams.” The university stated the revocation is retaliation for resisting government demands.
Legal Measures Begin Against Visa Ban
Dr Garber said the university had filed a complaint in court. A motion for a temporary restraining order will follow. “As we pursue legal remedies, we will do everything in our power to support our students and scholars,” he said. The Harvard International Office will share updates as available. The university seeks immediate legal protection to prevent harm to its international community.
Trump Administration Cites Non-Compliance
The federal government claimed Harvard failed to comply with Department of Homeland Security information requests. Dr Garber rejected the claim. “In fact, Harvard did respond to the Department’s requests as required by law,” he said. The revocation came hours after officials implemented the ban under SEVP guidelines. The administration warned of such actions in previous weeks.
Thousands of Students Face Uncertainty
More than 6,000 international students were enrolled at Harvard during the 2024–25 academic year. These students represented 27.3% of the university’s total enrolment. The government’s move places their education in jeopardy. Harvard stressed that its international students are vital to its academic mission. “You are our classmates and friends, our colleagues and mentors, our partners in the work of this great institution,” Dr Garber said.
University Cites Long History of Certification
Harvard stated it has held SEVP certification for over 70 years. The lawsuit argues the government revoked it “without process or cause.” The legal filing claims the decision violated the First Amendment and the Due Process Clause. It also cites violations of the Administrative Procedure Act. The complaint describes the action as “immediate and devastating” to students and the institution.
University Denounces Government Pressure
Dr Garber said Harvard would not compromise its independence. “We will not surrender our independence or relinquish our constitutional rights,” he said. The lawsuit describes the revocation as “the latest act by the government in clear retaliation.” The complaint alleges pressure to change university governance and curriculum.
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Broader Conflict Between Government and Universities
The Trump administration has recently clashed with multiple universities. The government accuses institutions of allowing anti-Semitism on campuses. It has threatened to reduce budgets and revoke tax exemptions. It also targeted foreign student enrolments as leverage. Last month, President Trump warned Harvard of actions if it resisted government oversight. Officials gave Harvard 72 hours to meet demands.
Previous Legal Action by Harvard
This is not Harvard’s first court challenge during the Trump presidency. In April, it sued over the freezing of $2.3 billion in funding. Friday’s legal action adds to the growing tension between elite academic institutions and the federal government. The university argues the visa ban undermines academic freedom and violates long-standing legal standards.
Statement Emphasises Support for Students
Dr Garber reassured affected students and scholars. “We will support you as we do our utmost to ensure that it remains open to the world,” he said. The university has called for the immediate reinstatement of its visa certification. It continues to provide legal assistance and guidance through its international office.
Next Steps Await Court Decision
The US District Court for the Massachusetts district will hear the case. Its seeks a temporary restraining order to halt the revocation. The outcome will affect thousands of international students currently in the US. It may also shape future federal policies toward higher education institutions.
