Trump Blocks New Visas for Harvard International Students in Escalating Row

By Daniel June 7, 2025
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In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard University, former U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation suspending visas for new international students at the institution. The order, effective for six months, halts entry into the United States for any foreign national intending to study or participate in an exchange programme at Harvard.

Citing a rise in campus crime and alleged non-compliance with federal investigations, Trump stated: “Harvard has failed to discipline certain misconduct on campus and refused cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security.” He claimed the suspension is necessary “to safeguard national security and the American public.”

The proclamation follows recent legal and political clashes between the university and the U.S. government. Just days earlier, a federal judge had issued an injunction blocking the administration’s attempt to bar international enrolments at Harvard.

In a strong response, Harvard reaffirmed its commitment to its international community. “This is yet another illegal retaliatory step taken by the administration in violation of Harvard’s First Amendment rights. We will continue to protect our international students,” the university said in a statement.

The United Kingdom, a major source of international students to the U.S., is watching the developments closely. Many British students, particularly postgraduates, opt for Ivy League institutions like Harvard for advanced research and global exposure. The new visa restrictions could now affect their future educational plans.

China also issued a sharp rebuke, accusing the U.S. of politicising educational cooperation. Trump’s order included allegations that Harvard accepted $150 million in funding from China and collaborated on research tied to military interests—claims strongly denied by Beijing.

This move is part of a broader push by Trump’s administration to increase scrutiny of international students, including enhanced social media vetting and visa revocations, especially targeting students from China.

With federal contracts at stake and visa processing halted, Harvard’s international future remains uncertain amid the growing political storm.

Source: THE PIE NEWS

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