US Government Threatens Harvard with Ban on Foreign Students

The Trump administration has threatened to ban Harvard University from enrolling international students and to revoke its tax-exempt status following Harvard's refusal to comply with government demands to change its hiring, admissions, and teaching practices in response to concerns over antisemitism. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem issued a letter demanding Harvard provide information on foreign students allegedly involved in illegal or violent activities, warning that failure to comply could result in the loss of the university’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification. Federal funds amounting to billions of dollars have been frozen, and two government grants have been canceled, as the administration accuses Harvard of fostering extremist ideologies and failing national security. Harvard's president has rejected these demands, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to independence and constitutional rights. The administration has also revoked hundreds of student visas nationwide, particularly targeting participants in pro-Palestinian protests, and has cited national security and foreign policy concerns as justification for potential deportations. These actions are part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration to pressure universities perceived as hostile to conservative interests.