In a bold step that complicates tensions between the White House and Harvard University, President Trump has issued a proclamation restricting foreign student visas to the Ivy League college. The directive comes amid ongoing legal and political disputes between the Trump administration and the famous institution.
In his official statement on Wednesday, Trump emphasized that entry into the United States for the purpose of studying or teaching is “a privilege granted by our Government, not a guarantee.” He further accused Harvard of failing to comply with federal regulations and claimed the institution has demonstrated widespread misconduct.
“Harvard University has failed in this respect, among many others,” Trump declared.
According to a White House fact sheet, the new restriction means incoming international students accepted to Harvard can no longer enter the U.S. under three types of nonimmigrant visas. In addition, Trump has directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to evaluate the revocation of visas currently held by existing foreign students.
This proclamation closely follows a legal motion filed earlier in the week by Harvard, requesting a federal judge to unlock approximately $2.5 billion in federal funds previously frozen by the Trump administration. The university’s legal team called for a summary judgment, bypassing a full trial in hopes of a quicker resolution.
“The Government continues to punish Harvard during the pendency of this case by whatever mechanisms it can,” Harvard attorneys argued.
The decision has ignited backlash from academic communities and human rights advocates, citing potential First Amendment violations and risks to educational freedom.
In defending the visa crackdown, President Trump pointed to rising crime rates at Harvard, including a spike in violent incidents. He also alleged that the university has neglected to discipline certain behavioral infractions, further justifying the federal government’s intervention.
“Given these facts, it is imperative… that the Federal Government be able to assess and, if necessary, address misconduct and crimes committed by foreign students at Harvard,” Trump said.
The administration has recently ramped up scrutiny on higher education institutions, targeting them for issues ranging from campus antisemitism to policies surrounding transgender student-athletes.
Despite mounting pressure, Harvard is standing firm. In an email to The Hill, a university spokesperson described the visa restriction as “another illegal retaliatory step taken by the Administration.” The statement reaffirmed the school’s dedication to defending the rights and futures of its international student body.
“Harvard will continue to protect its international students,” the spokesperson insisted.
