Trump administration revokes Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revoked Harvard University’s certification for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. This decision stops Harvard from enrolling international students. Existing foreign students must transfer or risk losing their legal status.

DHS Secretary Kristi L. Noem wrote a letter to Harvard about this issue. She stated that enrolling foreign students is a privilege, as is employing them on campus. The revocation happened because Harvard did not comply with record requests. It also relates to the school’s diversity policies and its handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

Noem noted that Harvard failed to provide records about misconduct. These records are important for determining if foreign students are admissible or removable.

The SEVP program collects and analyzes information on foreign students. It ensures that only legitimate students enter the U.S. It also certifies institutions that accept nonimmigrant students, ensuring they follow federal rules.

If Harvard wants to regain its certification, it must provide the requested records within 72 hours.

This revocation is part of an ongoing effort by the Trump administration to change university practices nationwide, including at Harvard.

The Trump administration has cut billions in federal funding to Harvard. Recently, the Department of Health and Human Services announced it would terminate $60 million in grants. The administration has also asked the IRS to revoke Harvard's tax-exempt status.