The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has warned that Harvard University could lose its ability to enroll international students if it fails to comply with demands from the Trump administration to provide information on certain visa holders.
This move marks the latest clash between the federal government and the Ivy League institution.
On Wednesday, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced the cancellation of two federal grants awarded to Harvard, totaling over $2.7 million. She also stated that she had sent a letter to the university requesting records regarding what she described as the “illegal and violent activities” of some international students. The deadline for Harvard to respond is April 30.
“If Harvard cannot demonstrate full compliance with federal reporting obligations, it will forfeit the right to admit foreign students,” Noem said in a public statement.
A spokesperson for Harvard acknowledged receipt of the letter and reiterated the university’s commitment to following the law while emphasizing its refusal to give up its autonomy or constitutional rights.
This development comes amid growing tensions between the Trump administration and higher education institutions, particularly around campus protests condemning Israel’s military actions in Gaza following an October 2023 attack by Hamas militants. Trump has criticized the pro-Palestinian demonstrations, labeling them as antisemitic and sympathetic to terrorism. Protesters, including Jewish groups, argue their advocacy for Palestinian rights is being unfairly equated with extremism.
The administration has also begun revoking student visas and pursuing the deportation of some foreign demonstrators.
“With a $53.2 billion endowment, Harvard can afford to support its own turmoil—DHS will not subsidize it,” Noem added, accusing the university of promoting “anti-American, pro-Hamas ideology.”
Harvard has previously said it is committed to combating antisemitism and discrimination while also protecting academic freedom and the right to protest.
Last month, the Trump administration launched a review of $9 billion in federal contracts and grants provided to Harvard. It subsequently demanded a range of changes, including the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and a ban on face coverings during protests. After Harvard refused to comply, the administration announced it would freeze $2.3 billion in funding.
Trump escalated the pressure further by threatening to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status. According to CNN, the IRS is actively preparing to take that step, with a final decision expected soon.
Harvard responded by stating there is no legal justification for stripping its tax-exempt status. The university warned such a move would set a dangerous precedent, reduce financial aid for students, and disrupt vital medical research.
Civil liberties organizations have expressed concern that the federal government’s actions threaten academic freedom and the right to free speech. Other institutions, including Columbia, Princeton, Brown, Cornell, and Northwestern, have also seen funding withheld or canceled.
The administration has increasingly tied federal support to compliance with conservative cultural policies, targeting DEI programs and transgender student protections. Rights advocates have also criticized the administration for failing to address rising Islamophobia and anti-Arab sentiment amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
REF: REUTERS
