Harvard University has vowed to maintain its independence amid escalating pressure from the Trump administration over foreign student enrollment policies. The clash centers on demands for increased transparency regarding international visa holders, with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) threatening to revoke Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students if compliance deadlines are not met.
Federal Grants Terminated, Compliance Demands Rise
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced the cancellation of two federal grants totaling $2.7 million, citing alleged “illegal and violent activities” by some visa holders. A Harvard spokesperson confirmed awareness of the demands but reiterated the institution’s commitment to protecting its constitutional rights while adhering to legal obligations.
Tax-Exempt Status Under Fire
The administration has further threatened Harvard’s tax-exempt status, a move university officials called “unprecedented” and warned would jeopardize financial aid programs and medical research. This follows earlier federal funding freezes exceeding $2 billion, part of broader scrutiny targeting universities resisting government-imposed restrictions, including diversity initiatives.
Broader Crackdown on Academia
Harvard is not alone in facing repercussions. Columbia, Princeton, and Cornell have also seen federal funding suspended or revoked, often linked to pro-Palestinian campus protests. The Trump administration alleges such demonstrations threaten U.S. foreign policy interests, while protesters argue their criticisms focus on Israel’s military actions in Gaza, not support for extremism.
Meanwhile, universities nationwide grapple with potential deportations of foreign students involved in protests, with hundreds of visas already revoked. Academics and human rights advocates warn these measures risk eroding free speech and institutional autonomy.
