Harvard University has sharply criticized the Trump administration’s recent decision to revoke its ability to enroll international students, calling the move “unlawful,” “retaliatory,” and a threat to the future of global education in the United States.
In a statement released Thursday, Harvard declared its unwavering commitment to its international community:
“We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard’s ability to host our international students and scholars.”
The university warned that the decision could cause serious harm to both Harvard and the broader U.S. academic landscape.
“This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission,” the statement said.
The policy change, announced via a letter from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, immediately strips Harvard of its certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Programme (SEVIS), which allows foreign nationals to study in the U.S.
In a separate statement, Noem justified the decision, accusing Harvard of “fostering violence, antisemitism, and collaborating with the Chinese Communist Party.” She emphasized that the move is meant to hold the university accountable.
The revocation has sparked widespread concern among students and faculty. Karl Molden, a 21-year-old Austrian student studying government and classics, described the decision as alarming.
“It’s frightening and saddening. Being admitted to Harvard was the greatest privilege of my life. This will certainly affect how international students view studying in the U.S.”
Harvard faculty, including members of the American Association of University Professors, condemned the action as politically motivated.
“This is the latest in a series of authoritarian moves targeting America’s oldest institution of higher education,” they said.
“The Trump administration is unlawfully seeking to dismantle U.S. higher education by targeting our international students. We must not yield to such extortion.”
China, whose students make up over 20% of Harvard’s international population, has also weighed in. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning criticized the move, warning it would damage the United States’ international reputation.
“The Chinese side has consistently opposed the politicization of educational cooperation,” she stated.
