U.S. Threatens Harvard: Lose the Right to Admit International Students Without Federal Oversight
Harvard University, one of America’s most prestigious institutions, is facing direct threats from former President Donald Trump’s administration for refusing to comply with broad federal oversight. The proposed supervision would cover student admissions, hiring practices, and the university’s political orientation.
In an official statement, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security warned: “If Harvard cannot demonstrate full compliance with reporting requirements, the university will lose its privilege to enroll international students.”
Currently, international students make up 27.2% of Harvard’s student body, according to the university’s official website.
Trump renewed his criticism of Harvard via his platform “Truth Social,” claiming the university no longer deserves recognition as a reputable institution, calling it “a disgrace that teaches hate and stupidity.” He urged an end to its federal funding and nonprofit tax-exempt status.
The former president also threatened to revoke $2.2 billion in educational grants unless Harvard changes its policies regarding student and staff selection and allows audits of its academic programs.
This pressure campaign comes amid Trump’s broader crackdown on what he describes as “rampant antisemitism” in American universities — a response to last year’s widespread campus protests against the war in Gaza.
While many universities have yielded under White House pressure, Harvard has rejected Trump’s demands, standing firm in its resistance.
