On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it has revoked Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The move bars the institution from enrolling new international students, creating uncertainty for community members around the globe.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warned that “enrolling international students is a privilege – not a right – and that privilege has been revoked due to Harvard’s repeated failure to comply with federal law.” The decision also places current international students in a tight spot: they must transfer to another SEVP-certified school or face losing their lawful status in the United States.
With Harvard hosting students from more than 140 countries, the policy shift sends shockwaves through global academic networks. Noem added that the administration is eyeing similar measures at other universities, signaling a broader crackdown on campus international programs.
Harvard quickly condemned the DHS action as unlawful and harmful. In its official response, the university stated: “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. We are working quickly to provide guidance and support to members of our community. This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission.”
As legal teams prepare challenges, students and universities alike are left grappling with the immediate fallout. For international learners, the ruling underscores the fragility of cross-border education and the importance of adaptable plans in an ever-shifting policy landscape.
Reference(s):
Trump cracks down on Harvard, international students in limbo
cgtn.com
