In a dramatic escalation of its ongoing standoff with Harvard University, the Trump administration has revoked the institution’s certification to enrol international students, citing alleged non-compliance with federal law.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the administration had rescinded Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, a move that immediately threatens the status of more than 6,700 international students currently enrolled at the Ivy League institution.
“Let this serve as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country,” Noem declared, reinforcing the administration’s intent to hold schools accountable under heightened scrutiny.
Harvard swiftly condemned the action as “unlawful” and “retaliatory,” warning that it could inflict serious harm on its academic mission and global standing.
“This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission,” the university said in a statement, adding that it is working rapidly to support affected students and challenge the decision.
The revocation follows months of mounting pressure from the White House. The administration has demanded sweeping changes to Harvard’s hiring, admissions, and teaching practices—particularly those related to allegations of antisemitism on campus. Harvard has countered, saying it has taken robust steps to combat antisemitism, and accused the administration of attempting to “regulate intellectual conditions.”
Thursday’s letter from DHS demanded that Harvard comply within 72 hours with a comprehensive records request that includes:
- All disciplinary records of non-immigrant students from the past five years
- Any electronic, video, or audio evidence of “illegal,” “dangerous,” or “violent” activity involving international students on campus
Failure to meet these demands, Noem stated, would result in further penalties and possible revocation of tax-exempt status and freezing of billions in federal grants.
The decision continues a broader pattern under the Trump administration aimed at reducing international student enrolment in U.S. universities. Previous visa policy overhauls have been met with lawsuits and widespread backlash from the academic community.
Harvard has not yet announced whether it will pursue legal action to reverse the decision, but sources within the university say that legal options are already being explored.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
