In a stunning move, the Trump administration has barred Harvard from enrolling international students.
It is accusing the school of failing to follow federal law.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called it a “warning to all universities.”
Harvard? They’re calling it “unlawful” and “retaliatory.”
With 6,700 international students—27% of its student body—suddenly facing possible deportation or transfer.
Panic has hit the campus like a tidal wave.
“We’re being used as poker chips,” said Swedish undergrad Leo Gerdén. He calls it “dehumanizing.”
Australian student Sarah Davis echoed the confusion: “We’re five days from graduation, and no one knows what’s next.”
Why The Clash?
Harvard’s defiance. After resisting the administration’s sweeping demands—like disciplinary files and protest footage. Things got personal.
The government struck back, yanking Harvard’s ability to host F- and J-visa students for 2025–26.
Harvard is fighting back in court.
Meanwhile, a judge in California just blocked similar visa cancellations nationwide—for now.
For international students who came chasing academic freedom, this feels like a betrayal.
Or, as Gerdén put it, “Without international students, Harvard is simply not Harvard anymore.”
