Harvard University, one of the top institutions in the United States, is facing a serious challenge regarding the admission of international students. The administration of former President Donald Trump decided to restrict international student enrollment at the university. Harvard opposed this decision in court. A federal court has temporarily blocked the restriction, but the matter is not yet fully resolved.
Trump Administration's Ban
In April 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security sent a letter to Harvard University stating that it wanted to restrict international student admissions. The letter claimed that Harvard did not take enough action against antisemitism and had changed its admission and hiring practices. It also accused Harvard of having ties with the Chinese Communist Party. Harvard denied all these accusations.
Harvard's Legal Response
Harvard University took legal action against the decision. The university argued that the ban would affect nearly one-quarter of its student body, harming its mission and goals. This year, Harvard has about 6,800 international students, more than 27% of its total student population.
Temporary Court Block
In May 2025, a federal court in Boston, Massachusetts, ruled in favor of Harvard. Judge Allison Burroughs temporarily blocked the Trump administration's ban. She stated that the decision could cause immediate and serious harm to the university and its students. She said, "The university is at risk of immediate harm."
Political Reactions
A spokesperson for the White House said that an unelected judge should not interfere in the government's immigration and national security policies. The Trump administration claimed that Harvard spreads antisemitism and cooperates with the Chinese Communist Party, though no proof was provided.
Future Outlook
This legal fight is seen as a major pushback by an academic institution against the immigration policies of the Trump administration. On one side are freedom of speech and academic independence, and on the other are national security and political pressure. This conflict may grow stronger in the future.