A U.S. federal court has temporarily halted the Trump administration's controversial move to strip Harvard University of its ability to enroll international students, marking a pivotal development in a high-stakes legal battle over education policy.
Court Upholds Temporary Relief
Massachusetts District Judge Allison D. Burroughs ruled on July 29 to maintain a temporary restraining order against the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) decision to revoke Harvard's SEVP certification. The order preserves the university's current international student enrollment status until a preliminary injunction is finalized after further negotiations between both parties.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict began on May 22 when DHS abruptly announced it would bar Harvard from admitting international students through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. The Ivy League institution swiftly filed a lawsuit on May 23, arguing the move threatened academic freedom and global educational exchange. Judge Burroughs initially issued a temporary restraining order the same day to prevent immediate enforcement.
Ongoing Implications
While the ruling allows Harvard to continue hosting international scholars for now, DHS has signaled its intent to pursue administrative measures to revoke the university's certification. The case highlights growing tensions between U.S. academic institutions and federal immigration policies, with potential ramifications for over 8,000 international students currently enrolled at Harvard.
Legal experts suggest the outcome could set precedents affecting how American universities engage with global talent pools amid shifting political landscapes.
