Harvard Banned From Enrolling Foreign Students: Lawsuit Filed

Harvard University Faces Federal Ban on Foreign Student Enrollment In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard University, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a ban preventing the university from enrolling foreign students. This action, announced on May 23, 2025, stems from Harvard's refusal to comply with a series of government demands. The university has responded by filing a lawsuit in federal court in Boston, claiming the ban is unconstitutional retaliation and a violation of the First Amendment. The lawsuit highlights the immediate and devastating impact on over 7,000 international students holding visas. The DHS cited concerns about Harvard allegedly fostering violence, antisemitism, and collaborating with the Chinese Communist Party as justification for the ban. Harvard strongly refutes these accusations, stating that the government's actions are unlawful. A spokesperson for Harvard declared, "The government's action is unlawful. We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard's ability to host international students and scholars." This statement underscores the university's determination to fight the ban and uphold its commitment to international students. The ban has sparked widespread concern and debate. One Jewish Harvard student expressed her worry that the administration is using Jewish students as pawns in this political conflict. The situation highlights the complex relationship between higher education institutions and government oversight, particularly regarding international students and academic freedom. The outcome of Harvard's lawsuit will have significant implications for other universities and the future of international student enrollment in the United States.