The United States government has banned Harvard University from admitting new foreign students until it meets six strict conditions within 72 hours. Consequently, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has suspended Harvard’s certification to enroll international students under the SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).
The move comes after the DHS raised concerns about campus safety and alleged links with foreign entities. Consequently, the ban could affect over 6,800 foreign students, including many from India, who are currently studying at the Ivy League university.
The U.S. authorities have demanded that Harvard submit detailed reports and proof related to international students’ activities.
Consequently, the university must now provide:
- All records of illegal activity by foreign students in the past five years
- Information about violent acts committed by international students
- Reports of any threats made by these students
- Evidence of violations of others’ rights by international students
- Complete disciplinary records
- Videos or audio recordings of protests involving international students on campus
The DHS has made it clear that if Harvard fails to submit this information within 72 hours, the university will lose its ability to host foreign students permanently.
This sudden decision has caused tension among students, especially those from India and China. Moreover, some students fear their visas could be affected or even cancelled. As a result, many are now considering transferring to other institutions to maintain their visa status.
In response, Harvard University called the action “unjustified” and “damaging to academic freedom.” The administration is working to provide all necessary documentation and is in discussion with federal authorities, as stated.
This is not the first time the U.S. government has cracked down on foreign student policies. However, this time, experts believe that politically motivated actors may be behind the move, as some top officials have accused Harvard of being “too close to China.”
Many education experts and immigration lawyers are closely watching how the situation unfolds, as the outcome could impact other top universities as well.
The U.S. government has stopped Harvard from admitting international students; consequently, it has given the university 72 hours to meet six strict conditions related to campus safety and foreign student conduct. Moreover, over 6,800 students may be affected. In response, Harvard has called the move unfair and is, therefore, trying to resolve the issue.
