The Trump administration is escalating its crackdown on universities, particularly Harvard, by blocking the institution from enrolling new international students. This move has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of thousands of students, including approximately 788 Indian students currently studying at Harvard. The decision, announced on May 22, 2025, is linked to concerns about Harvard's handling of several sensitive issues, including allegations of antisemitism on campus and potential foreign influence.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has accused Harvard of "fostering violence" and "antisemitism," further stating that the university has been given 72 hours to comply with a list of demands. These demands include providing records of any illegal activity involving international students over the past five years, information on dangerous or violent acts committed by these students, records of any threats made by them, evidence of any situations where they may have violated the rights of others, all disciplinary records of international students, and video or audio recordings of protests involving them on campus. The administration has also accused Harvard of coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party.
Harvard has denounced the administration's actions as unlawful and has pledged to support its international students. The university has been given a short time frame to comply with a detailed list of demands to regain its ability to enroll international students. Without the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, Harvard cannot enroll new students on F-1 or J-1 visas.
The implications of this ban extend beyond just new enrollments. Current international students at Harvard are also facing uncertainty, with some potentially needing to transfer to other American universities to maintain their legal status and continue their studies in the U.S. Those awaiting graduation also face uncertainty.
This action is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to scrutinize and restrict international student visas. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that at least 300 student visas have been revoked, targeting those involved in activities deemed to "run counter" to U.S. national interests, with many cases linked to participation in pro-Palestinian activities. Videos have emerged showing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers detaining students on campuses, causing widespread concern.
These policies have broader implications for international students in the U.S., impacting their visa prospects, and post-graduation job opportunities. Restrictions on programs such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) and H-1B visas, which allow international students to work in the U.S. after graduation, could be reinstated.
The economic impact of a decline in international students is also significant. In the 2023-2024 academic year, international students contributed an estimated $44 billion to the U.S. economy. During Trump's first term, visa restrictions and travel bans led to a 12% drop in new international enrollment, and experts fear the impact could be even more severe this time.
Many international students feel less welcome in the U.S. and avoid speaking publicly for fear of government retaliation or online harassment. Some students have sued the government, alleging that their visas were revoked without cause or explanation, potentially violating their civil rights. Universities are being urged to defend the value of international student mobility for both their institutions and the country.