A federal judge has extended a temporary block on the Trump administration’s effort to stop Harvard University from enrolling international students. The legal battle between Harvard and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is ongoing after Harvard sued the government following attempts to revoke its ability to host foreign students.
What Happened?
U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs extended the temporary restraining order that prevents the government from barring Harvard from enrolling foreign students. This block was first issued last week after Harvard filed a lawsuit against the DHS.
The Trump administration recently announced a new effort to revoke Harvard’s certification to enrol international students. The acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Todd Lyons, sent Harvard a letter giving the university 30 days to respond to accusations including:
- Coordinating with foreign entities
- Failing to properly respond to antisemitism on campus
Why Is Harvard Being Targeted?
This dispute is part of a wider conflict between the Trump administration and Harvard, one of America’s oldest and wealthiest universities.
In April, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem demanded that Harvard provide records related to foreign students, including discipline records and any reports of “dangerous or violent activity.” Noem said this was a response to claims of antisemitism at Harvard.
Harvard says it complied with the requests. However, on May 22, Noem stated Harvard’s response was insufficient and immediately removed the university from the federal program that allows colleges to sponsor international students for U.S. visas.
Harvard’s Lawsuit
Harvard argues that the government failed to follow required procedures, such as allowing schools to appeal and responding within a 30-day window before removing eligibility to enrol international students. The new letter from ICE aligns with these procedures, giving Harvard a chance to respond.
Impact on Students and Campus Life
Even with the restraining order, the uncertainty has caused “profound fear, concern, and confusion,” according to Maureen Martin, Harvard’s director of immigration services.
Many international students have inquired about transferring, and some domestic students have considered deferring or transferring because they worry their education would suffer without a diverse international community.
International students arriving in Boston have faced extra screenings, and some have experienced visa delays or denials at U.S. consulates.
The sanctions could especially affect graduate programs that recruit heavily from abroad. Some international universities, including two in Hong Kong, have already invited Harvard students to transfer.
President Trump’s Reaction
After Judge Burroughs’ initial order, Trump criticized the decision on social media, claiming Harvard had “found the absolute best Judge for them” but insisted the government would eventually win.
The administration has accused Harvard of being a liberal stronghold and failing to protect Jewish students from harassment. It demands changes to Harvard’s policies to fit the president’s agenda.
Harvard’s Response
Harvard was the first university to reject these government demands, stating they threaten the independence that makes U.S. universities attractive worldwide. Harvard has filed lawsuits accusing the government of retaliation for resisting political pressure.