Harvard's International Student Enrollment Revoked

Michelle Warmuz, 22 May 2025

In May 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revoked Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), effectively barring the institution from enrolling international students for the 2025–2026 academic year. This decision has sparked widespread concern and debate, given that international students comprise over a quarter of Harvard's student body.

The revocation stems from escalating tensions between Harvard and the Trump administration. The administration accused Harvard of promoting antisemitism and maintaining ties with the Chinese Communist Party. On 23rd May, the Office of the President at Harvard University released a statement in support of their international students, following their complaint to the federal government advising,

“The court has granted Harvard’s motion, allowing the University to continue enrolling international students and scholars as the case proceeds. A hearing has been set for next Thursday, May 29, to determine whether the temporary order should be extended.”

According to an article in NPR, Harvard clearly stated that Trump's administration was violating the First Amendment. Trump’s fury over the court's decision was made public in a post on Truth Social, again reaffirming his negative views about international students on U.S. soil.

Impact on International Students

The immediate consequence for current international students is the potential loss of their legal status in the U.S., meaning students face the dilemma of potentially having to transfer to other institutions or, in the worst-case scenario, leaving the country.

The Boston Globe reported that Karl Molden, an Austrian sophomore, expressed his distress: "Everything that I've worked so hard for is it just going to fall apart?" Similarly, Leo Gerdén, a senior from Sweden, described the situation as "absolutely horrible, absolutely devastating."

Trump's attempt at revocation also disrupts the broader Harvard community, with many American students voicing concerns over the loss of their international peers, who significantly contribute to the university's diversity and academic richness.

Depending on the outcome, the decision may also deter future international applicants, potentially diminishing the university's global standing and the cultural exchange that enriches the educational experience.

Meanwhile, institutions like the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have extended offers to affected students, highlighting the international ramifications of the U.S. policy shift.