Trump Administration Revokes Harvard’s License to Enroll Foreign Students, Citing Security Concerns

Washington D.C., May 23, 2025: In a stunning move, the Trump administration has stripped Harvard University of its certification to enroll international students, citing national security concerns and alleged ties with foreign adversaries. The decision, confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), immediately affects more than 6,800 international students—approximately 27% of the institution’s student population.

The DHS has accused Harvard of failing to meet federal compliance standards and suggested the university has not adequately safeguarded its campus from foreign influence, particularly from China. The administration has also imposed a freeze on all federal funding to the university, ordered an internal audit, and demanded detailed data on student organizations and activities involving foreign nationals.

“This decision reflects our administration’s commitment to ensuring that U.S. academic institutions are not exploited by hostile foreign powers for espionage or ideological subversion,” a senior administration official told reporters.

Harvard University, in response, issued a strong statement condemning the move as “unconstitutional, vindictive, and politically motivated,” vowing to challenge the decision in court. “This action not only undermines Harvard’s academic freedom but also sets a dangerous precedent for all higher education institutions in the United States,” the statement read.

Critics of the decision, including education advocates and civil rights organizations, have warned of a chilling effect on U.S. higher education and research collaboration. They argue that the revocation could damage America’s standing as a global leader in education and innovation, at a time when universities already face enrollment challenges.

Legal experts suggest the case could reach the Supreme Court if the administration follows through on further actions against other institutions. Meanwhile, affected students at Harvard are now in limbo, uncertain whether they will be allowed to continue their studies in the U.S.

The move comes amid a broader push by the Trump administration to scrutinize elite academic institutions for alleged national security vulnerabilities and ideological bias. Harvard is reportedly the first of several universities under investigation.