A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to stop Harvard from enrolling international students. The temporary restraining order came just one day after the administration moved to revoke Harvard’s access to a key student visa system.
The legal clash between Harvard and the Trump administration intensified Friday. Harvard filed a lawsuit, claiming the government’s action violated constitutional rights and federal law. The university said the move was retaliation for resisting political pressure.
Judge Allison Burroughs issued the order, halting the administration’s plan for now. It prevents the Department of Homeland Security from removing Harvard from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. This database is essential for issuing student visas.
Harvard’s lawsuit described the policy as an attack on academic independence. The university argued that nearly a third of its students could be forced out. “With the stroke of a pen, the government has sought to erase a quarter of Harvard’s student body,” the legal filing stated.
Harvard President Alan Garber condemned the administration’s actions. He said they reflect a campaign to control curriculum, hiring, and student admissions. Garber also framed the issue as part of a broader political attack on universities.
The Trump administration defended its move. White House deputy press secretary Abigail Jackson said Harvard should focus on stopping “anti-American agitators.” She also accused the court of bias, saying the judge followed a “liberal agenda.”
Currently, over 6,800 foreign students attend Harvard. They make up more than 27% of the student body. Many come from China, India, Canada, South Korea, and the UK.
One of them is Leo Ackerman, who hoped to begin classes in August. He called the decision devastating but remains hopeful that the lawsuit will succeed.
Losing international students could financially harm Harvard. They often pay full tuition, helping fund scholarships for American students. This year’s tuition alone exceeds $59,000, not including housing and other expenses.
The Trump-Harvard legal battle escalates amid broader crackdowns on higher education. Trump has frozen federal funding, opened investigations, and threatened tax status changes. Other elite schools like Columbia University have also come under fire.
Despite some administrative concessions, Harvard shows no signs of backing down. It hired several prominent Republican lawyers, including a former Trump Organization advisor. The university appears prepared for a prolonged legal fight.
Foreign students now face visa uncertainty. Without access to the SEVP system, Harvard cannot support visa applications. This puts many students at risk of having to leave the country.
Some British students, speaking anonymously, said the move felt like a political game. “It’s a dream to study here, and now it could all vanish,” one said. Another student expressed anger, saying they felt like “pawns.”
The Trump-Harvard legal battle escalates at a critical time for American higher education. The outcome could affect how universities operate and whom they can enroll.
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