The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's authorization to enroll international students, effective immediately. This decision affects nearly 6,800 international students, representing 27.3% of the student body, who may need to transfer to other schools or lose their legal permission to stay in the US.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) took this action, citing Harvard's failure to comply with requests for records about its foreign students. However, Harvard disputes this claim, stating that it provided the requested records as required by law. According to Harvard's complaint, the university submitted records on April 30 and May 14, but the DHS still revoked its certification without explanation or citation of any regulation that Harvard failed to comply with.
Impact on International Students:
Students who completed their degrees this semester will be allowed to graduate.
Currently enrolled international students attending Harvard under the Student Exchange and Visitor Program will be forced to enroll at another US institution or leave the country.
New international students who were planning to enroll in the fall will not be able to attend Harvard unless the government changes its decision or a court intervenes.
Harvard President Alan M. Garber condemned the action, calling it "unlawful and unwarranted." The university has filed a complaint and plans to seek a temporary restraining order. Harvard spokesperson Jason Newton stated that the government's action is "retaliatory" and "threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country."
Harvard's Response:
Harvard has filed a lawsuit against the federal government in response to the revocation of its authorization.
The university is working to provide guidance and support to affected students.
Harvard president Alan M. Garber emphasized the importance of international students to the university's community and academic mission.
Reactions from International Students:
Leo Gerdén, an international student from Sweden, found the announcement "devastating" and urged Harvard to fight the DHS decision using all available resources.
Karl N. Molden, another international student, expressed widespread panic among students and faith in Harvard's ability to push back against the Trump administration's efforts
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