Trump Administration Revokes Harvard International Student Enrollment, Threatening 6,800 Students

The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's authority to enroll international students, affecting over 6,800 foreign students who make up more than 27% of the student body. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem accused Harvard of "fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party," demanding the university regain its certification within 72 hours or face losing the privilege to enroll non-American students. Harvard and its faculty have condemned the move as "unlawful" and are preparing legal challenges, emphasizing the essential role international students play in the university community. The decision has stirred widespread concern, including from international stakeholders like Australia's ambassador, who is monitoring the situation for the impact on Australian students. Critics argue the administration's action is damaging, illegal, and shortsighted, highlighting the historical contributions of international students to American innovation and national security. Some analysts warn this approach mirrors past geopolitical mistakes, such as the Soviet Union's restrictions on Chinese students during the Cold War, which ultimately undermined long-term strategic advantages.