Context:

The Trump administration has abruptly halted Harvard University's ability to enroll international students, a move that serves as a significant pressure tactic to align the university with the President's policies. This decision follows a contentious exchange over the legality of a records request from the Department of Homeland Security, which has led to a revocation of Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification. With 6,800 international students making up 27% of its student body, Harvard faces a substantial financial impact due to international students typically paying higher tuition fees. Harvard's administration has labeled the action as unlawful and retaliatory, expressing concern over the threat it poses to the university’s academic and research missions. The Department of Homeland Security's ultimatum has intensified fears among current international students, who now face the risk of losing their legal status without the ability to transfer schools promptly.

Dive Deeper:

• The Trump administration's decision to revoke Harvard University's ability to enroll international students is a move to pressure the institution into compliance with the President’s agenda, following disputes over a records request by the Department of Homeland Security.

• Harvard's international student population, making up 27% of its student body, is critical to the university’s financial structure as these students generally pay higher tuition fees, with costs reaching up to $87,000 including room and board.

• Kristi Noem, the homeland security secretary, formally notified Harvard of the revocation of its Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification, which has been shared publicly via social media.

• Harvard has already initiated legal challenges against the administration's attempts to alter its curriculum, admissions, and hiring practices, and is likely to pursue further legal action in response to this latest development.

• The Department of Homeland Security has issued a statement informing international students of the need to transfer or risk losing their legal status, creating anxiety among students who are integral to Harvard's academic environment.

• Harvard officials, labeling the action as unlawful, are actively working to support and guide international students and scholars, emphasizing the significant cultural and academic contributions these students bring to the university and the nation.

• Leo Gerden, a senior international student at Harvard, expressed profound concern over the administration's decision, highlighting the existential threat it poses to Harvard's identity as a globally inclusive institution.