Harvard University: Harvard faces a tight 72-hour deadline to submit detailed records on its international students or risk losing its ability to enroll foreign students for the next academic year. This urgent demand highlights the growing scrutiny on universities under evolving federal policies.
Harvard’s Global Reputation Takes a Hit Amid Visa Restrictions
Harvard University has always been seen as one of the world’s top schools—getting in meant you were among the smartest and most accomplished students anywhere. But lately, things have changed. The Department of Homeland Security, led by Kristi Noem, has taken a big step by cutting off Harvard’s access to a key system called SEVIS. This system tracks international students and helps them keep their visas valid. Without it, Harvard can’t legally enroll new foreign students or confirm that current ones are allowed to study in the U.S.
Usually, schools lose access to SEVIS because of problems like losing accreditation or shutting down—not for political reasons. But in this case, the government says Harvard has created an environment that’s “hostile” to Jewish students. They’re pointing to protests on campus and the university’s diversity and inclusion efforts, claiming these have led to anti-American and pro-Hamas views. This move has stirred up a lot of debate about freedom on campus and what it means for international students wanting to study at Harvard.
Harvard University Faces Government Heat: SEVP Revoked, International Student Enrollment Frozen
For decades, Harvard University has been a symbol of academic excellence. For many around the world, earning admission meant crossing into a realm of elite intellect and opportunity. But a sweeping move by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has suddenly halted that path for foreign students, sparking outrage, debate, and global attention.
Why the U.S. Government Pulled Harvard’s SEVP Certification Over Compliance Failures and Campus Ideology Concerns
On May 22, 2025, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem signed an official letter revoking Harvard’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This certification is essential for any U.S. institution to legally host international students on F-1 and J-1 visas.
According to DHS, Harvard failed to provide adequate records regarding foreign student conduct, and further accused the university of fostering an “unsafe” campus environment—especially toward Jewish students. The letter also cited “pro-Hamas sympathies” and “ideologically driven DEI policies” as contributing factors.
Harvard Cut Off from Enrolling International Students as SEVIS Access Is Suspended and Visa Holders Told to Transfer
With its SEVIS access revoked, Harvard is no longer authorized to issue or maintain visa records for foreign students. This means that no new international students can be admitted under legal status for the upcoming academic year.
Even more urgently, current students on F- or J-visas may now be required to transfer to other certified institutions to remain in legal standing within the United States.
Harvard Given 72 Hours to Reverse SEVP Revocation: Must Submit Detailed Records by May 25
DHS has outlined six categories of student-related documentation Harvard must submit within 72 hours. These include records of illegal activity, threats, disciplinary actions, protest footage, and any incidents involving nonimmigrant students from 2020 to 2025.
The deadline? May 25, 2025, by 5:00 PM EDT.
Failure to comply could lead to criminal penalties and long-term damage to Harvard’s ability to host international talent.
Trump Administration’s Campus Crackdown: Policy Enforcement or Political Statement?
Though framed as a procedural revocation, the letter’s tone reflects deeper ideological concerns. The Trump administration has signaled a broader campaign to combat what it describes as anti-American and antisemitic elements within elite U.S. universities.
Observers warn this could be just the beginning—a potential shift in how the federal government interacts with academia, especially when politics, protests, and international affairs intersect.
Also Read|Gold Cards: Trump Opens $5 Million Residency Program for Foreign Investors Starting Next Week
