Trump Halts Harvard University’s Ability to Enroll Foreign Students

In a sweeping move that deepens an already fraught conflict, the Trump administration has barred Harvard University from enrolling new international students, citing concerns over national security. The order, issued by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi L. Noem, forms part of a wider federal investigation into alleged foreign influence and protest activity on American university campuses.

The decision also places current international students, who comprise nearly 27% of Harvard’s student body, at risk of losing their immigration status unless they transfer to other institutions. The order comes after the administration alleged that Harvard has permitted foreign students to take part in what Secretary Noem described as ‘anti-American, pro-terrorist activities’, while also alleging undisclosed ties to China.

In a statement, Noem accused Harvard of failing to comply with a federal request for records relating to foreign students said to have participated in violent protests or illegal activity over the past five years.

“The university knowingly allowed anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators to harass and physically assault individuals, and obstruct its once-venerable learning environment,” Noem said. She further alleged that Harvard had hosted and trained members of China’s paramilitary forces, although no public evidence has been presented to support the claim.

The university has been given 72 hours to provide a comprehensive list of disciplinary and digital records, including video and audio footage, related to protest activity involving international students.

In response, Harvard spokesperson Jason Newton described the directive as ‘unlawful’ and reiterated the university’s commitment to defending its international community.

“Harvard is fully committed to maintaining our ability to host international students and scholars, who come from more than 140 countries and enrich the University and this nation immeasurably,” Newton said. “This directive threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission.”

The university is already engaged in a legal dispute with the White House over what it claims is politically driven interference in its governance and admissions policies. It has also faced over $2.7 billion in federal funding freezes during Trump’s second term.

This latest escalation comes amid broader federal crackdowns on campus protests, particularly those relating to the war in Gaza. Just last month, the Department of Homeland Security paused the deactivation of student records in its visa database, following lawsuits challenging the administration’s handling of student visa terminations.