The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University’s ability to enrol international students, escalating tensions with the elite institution. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem informed Harvard of the decision on Thursday, citing failure to meet reporting requirements under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. The administration’s letter, obtained by The New York Times, stated, “Effective immediately, Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification is revoked.”
27 Percent of Harvard Students Affected
The Department of Homeland Security announced that the revocation affects current and future international students. About 6,800 international students studied at Harvard in the 2024–25 academic year, or 27 percent of the student body. The action follows a dispute over a records request involving student visa holders. Harvard resisted, saying the request exceeded legal limits. Homeland Security demanded information about student coursework and involvement in illegal activities.
Legal Challenge Expected as University Pushes Back
A Harvard spokesperson called the action unlawful. Jason Newton, the university’s director of media relations, said, “We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard’s ability to host our international students and scholars, who hail from more than 140 countries and enrich the university — and this nation — immeasurably.” He added, “This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission.”
New Demand Includes Six Categories of Student Records
The move stems from a Homeland Security investigation opened on 16 April. Noem’s letter demanded eight categories of information. Harvard responded on 30 April, stating it would provide only what the law required. Homeland Security then claimed Harvard’s response was insufficient. It followed up by narrowing the request to four categories, which Harvard said applied to only a few students. On Thursday, Noem disqualified Harvard and expanded the criteria to six categories, giving the university 72 hours to comply.
Tuition and Funding Under Threat
International students at Harvard pay $59,320 in annual tuition, with total costs nearing $87,000 when including room and board. These students often contribute more to costs than domestic students. Harvard practices need-blind admissions but relies heavily on tuition revenue. The revocation could deeply affect its funding and research base.
Experts Say Action is Unprecedented
Former Obama-era Homeland Security official Andrea Flores said, “This is unprecedented. D.H.S. has never tried to reshape the student body of a university by revoking access to its vetting systems, and it is unique to target one institution over hundreds that it certifies every year.” The federal student visa program is overseen by Immigration and Customs Enforcement under Homeland Security. ICE is responsible for certifying institutions that host foreign students.
Australian Students Impacted by Ban
Australia’s ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, responded quickly to the development. “I know this will be distressing for Harvard’s many Australian students. The embassy is working with the United States government to obtain the details of this decision so that Australian students can receive appropriate advice,” Rudd posted on Friday.
We are monitoring closely developments at Harvard University in relation to the administration’s statement this afternoon on the future enrolment of international students. I know this will be distressing for Harvard’s many Australian students. The Embassy is working with the…
— Kevin Rudd AC (@AmboRudd) May 22, 2025
Australians at Harvard Express Concern
One Australian student who recently secured a visa for a Harvard master’s program called the situation “completely crazy.” He said, “The visa is a completely worthless document if all of this all goes through in the end.” He remains in Boston, continuing to work and stay with his partner. “I have a lot of friends at Harvard; Australians who are currently travelling in Europe because their exams just finished. They are unsure whether they’re going to get back into the country,” he said.
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Harvard Faces Multiple Investigations
Harvard is already fighting several federal inquiries. The Justice Department has opened a probe into the university’s admissions policies. The administration previously attempted to strip the school of research funding. Legal experts believe Harvard has a strong case to recover that funding. However, the university faces continued pressure as investigations and data demands increase. Senior Harvard officials reportedly see the situation as an ongoing crisis.
University Vows to Defend Academic Integrity
Harvard’s executive vice president Meredith Weenick told students in April, “We will provide the administration only with information required by law.” She advised students to “stay as focused as possible on your academic pursuits.” The university plans to support affected students and continue legal resistance. The Trump administration’s actions mark a broader effort to reshape the American higher education landscape. Harvard’s legal team is expected to file a new challenge soon.
