Harvard University is facing one of its most serious federal challenges yet as the Trump administration moves to block the enrolment of international students, a policy that could affect over 7,000 people affiliated with the school. In a court filing this week, Harvard’s director of immigration services warned of deep emotional and academic consequences already unfolding across campus, the New York Times reported.
Students afraid to attend graduation, cancel travel plans
Maureen Martin, the university’s director of immigration services, told the court that the administration’s proposed directive has caused “profound fear, concern, and confusion.” She noted that many students are afraid to attend their own graduation ceremonies, worried that their presence might draw attention or retaliation. Others have scrapped travel plans to visit families abroad, fearing they might not be allowed to re-enter the US upon return.
The federal order, if implemented, would not only impact 5,000 current international students at Harvard but also 2,000 recent graduates in a US work programme called Optional Practical Training. Incoming students are also at risk. Some American students, Martin said, have even reconsidered attending Harvard if international classmates are barred.
A new front in the Trump administration’s targeting of Harvard
This legal clash follows months of intensifying pressure from the Trump administration on Harvard. Officials have frozen nearly $3 billion in federal research grants and accused the school of failing to address antisemitism. In a recent statement, the US Department of Homeland Security alleged that Harvard had enabled “anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators” on campus, and cited these concerns as justification for the enrolment ban.
Officials also demanded detailed information on Harvard’s international student population before issuing the ban.
Visa scrutiny and foreign government concerns mount
According to Martin, visa holders linked to Harvard have already begun facing increased scrutiny at US airports and border checks. One such inspection reportedly delayed a former head of state who is currently a fellow at Harvard’s Kennedy School. Several students say they were harassed or hassled while traveling, while others report difficulty focusing on studies due to mental stress.
Harvard has also received inquiries from foreign governments, with consulates expressing concern over how the ban would impact their nationals. Some foreign universities are even attempting to lure students away. Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, for example, announced fast-tracked admissions for Harvard students who may be affected.
Legal fight begins as court blocks move temporarily
Harvard has filed a lawsuit challenging the directive, which a judge temporarily blocked last week. A court hearing is scheduled for Thursday, marking the first legal faceoff in what could become a prolonged battle.
Martin said that many students may not be able to transfer because deadlines have passed or academic options are limited. For doctoral students in specialized fields, switching institutions may not even be feasible.
The administration’s actions, Harvard argues, have effectively weaponised immigration policy to strike at the university’s academic and global standing, while placing the livelihoods and well-being of thousands of students in jeopardy.
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