The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has warned Harvard University sternly, threatening to revoke its certification to enrol international students. The agency demands detailed records on foreign students allegedly involved in “illegal and violent activities” by April 30, 2025.
In a letter from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the agency accused Harvard of creating a “hostile learning environment” for Jewish students amid pro-Palestinian protests. The letter, reported by The Harvard Crimson, emphasised that hosting international students is a “privilege, not a guarantee.” DHS requested information on visa-holding students’ disciplinary actions, threats, or protest involvement.
Harvard responded firmly, defending its commitment to legal and constitutional principles. “We will not surrender our independence or relinquish our constitutional rights,” a university spokesperson stated. “We expect the Administration to do the same.”
Department of Homeland Security is threatening to strip Harvard's eligibility to host international students unless it turns over disciplinary records https://t.co/XW1vNtPxdW
— CNN (@CNN) April 17, 2025This escalation follows the Trump administration’s decision to freeze over $2 billion in federal grants to Harvard and cancel two DHS grants worth $2.7 million. The White House has also signalled similar measures against other elite universities, pushing for policies like banning masks at protests, ending diversity programs, and adopting merit-based admissions. Additionally, the administration has revoked hundreds of student and researcher visas nationwide, citing national security concerns.
BREAKING: If Harvard does not fully comply with all reporting requirements to DHS, including providing detailed records of foreign students’ misconduct on campus, Harvard will no longer be able to enroll foreign students. pic.twitter.com/azcn1Q9NhH
— Ben B@dejo (@BenTelAviv) April 17, 2025Critics argue these actions blur the line between peaceful protest and extremism, threatening academic freedom. International students comprise 27.2% of Harvard’s student body (6,793 in the current academic year), which is vital to the university’s diversity and global reputation. Losing Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification would prevent Harvard from admitting new international students, significantly impacting its academic community.
Read: Trump Freezes $2.3B in Harvard Funding Over DEI, Mask Ban Dispute
The controversy raises questions about balancing national security, free speech, and academic autonomy. As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Harvard’s next steps.
