Ban Overturned: Harvard Still Accepting International Students

In recent days, the Internet has been abuzz with news of a legal battle between Harvard University and President Donald Trump’s administration. What’s behind the conflict, and what is the current status? Let’s break it down.

What happened?

On May 22, 2025, the Trump administration attempted to ban Harvard University from admitting international students, sparking widespread public outcry.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) declared that Harvard would lose its right to enroll international students unless it provided detailed information about its foreign students, including records of their involvement in protests and disciplinary actions. This move was part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration to combat what it described as anti-American and antisemitic sentiments on university campuses, particularly following a wave of protests.

All current international students at Harvard were urged to transfer to other institutions.

In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit, arguing that the administration’s actions violated the U.S. Constitution, particularly the First Amendment and the right to due process. A federal judge temporarily blocked the enforcement of the ban, allowing the university to continue admitting international students.

The lawsuit emphasizes that “Harvard is not Harvard without international students.” Foreign students make up approximately one-quarter of the university’s student body.

Current situation

As of now, the ban has not taken effect, thanks to a court ruling. Federal Judge Allison Burroughs determined that the Trump administration’s actions could cause “immediate and irreparable harm” to the university. The ruling temporarily blocks DHS’s attempt to revoke Harvard’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which would have effectively prohibited the university from enrolling international students.

However, the situation remains unstable: the Trump administration continues to exert pressure on the university, including the suspension of federal funding and threats to strip Harvard of its tax-exempt status.

Harvard, in turn, has expressed strong support for its international students and reaffirmed its commitment to defending academic freedom and institutional independence.

International response

In light of the situation, several countries — including Hong Kong — have begun actively recruiting international students left in limbo. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has offered unconditional admission and support to affected students.