Harvard University Takes Legal Action Against U.S. Government Over International Student Enrollment

Harvard University has taken legal action against the U.S. government after its authority to enroll international students was revoked. This lawsuit, led by President Dr. Alan M. Garber, highlights the ongoing conflict between the university and the Trump administration. The government claims Harvard failed to provide necessary information, while the university insists it complied with all requests. With over 6,000 international students enrolled, this decision could have significant implications for the institution and its students. As Harvard seeks a court order to reverse the government's decision, the situation underscores broader tensions between universities and the current administration.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 23, 2025, 21:38 IST

Harvard's Legal Challenge

Harvard University has initiated a lawsuit against the U.S. government following the revocation of its ability to enroll international students. This legal action is part of an ongoing conflict between the university and President Donald Trump.

In a public statement, Harvard's President, Dr. Alan M. Garber, denounced the government's decision as both illegal and unjust. He announced that the university is seeking a court order to reverse this action.

Dr. Garber stated, "We strongly oppose this unlawful and unjustified measure. It jeopardizes the futures of thousands of students and scholars at Harvard and serves as a cautionary tale for many others at colleges and universities nationwide who have come to America to pursue their education and achieve their aspirations."

He further mentioned, "We have filed a complaint, and we will soon submit a motion for a temporary restraining order. While we seek legal remedies, we will do everything possible to assist our students and scholars. The Harvard International Office will provide updates as new information arises."

The government's decision to prevent Harvard from enrolling international students was announced mere hours before the lawsuit was filed. This action is linked to a federal initiative known as the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which regulates the enrollment of foreign students in U.S. educational institutions. Harvard reported that over 6,000 international students were enrolled for the 2024–2025 academic year, accounting for more than 27% of its total student body.

Last month, President Trump had warned that a ban could be imposed if Harvard failed to adhere to newly established government regulations. The administration indicated that compliance with these demands within 72 hours could prevent the ban.

The government alleged that Harvard did not provide certain information requested by the Department of Homeland Security. However, Dr. Garber refuted this claim, stating, "The government asserts that its harmful action is based on Harvard's noncompliance with information requests from the Department of Homeland Security. In reality, Harvard complied with the Department's requests as mandated by law."

This situation is part of a larger dispute between the Trump administration and various universities, including Harvard. The administration has accused some institutions of allowing anti-Semitic behavior on their campuses and has threatened to withdraw funding, tax benefits, and the ability to enroll international students.

Harvard has a history of legal battles against the government. In April, the university filed a lawsuit regarding the administration's freeze on $2.3 billion in funding. Dr. Garber reiterated the university's stance: "We will not relinquish our independence or our constitutional rights."

In its federal court lawsuit in Massachusetts, Harvard asserts that it has been authorized to enroll international students under the F-1 visa program for over 70 years, which permits foreign students to study in the United States.