White House Suspends Harvard's Authorization to Enroll Foreign Students

In a significant move, the U.S. government has suspended Harvard University’s ability to admit foreign students. U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem made the announcement via the social media platform X, citing the university’s alleged failure to comply with federal laws as the reason behind the decision. Noem emphasized that this action serves as a warning to other universities and educational institutions in the country.

Harvard, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, has long been a hub for international students from over 140 countries, including Nepal, under student exchange programs. The cancellation means currently enrolled foreign students must now seek transfers to other universities.

This development is reportedly part of a broader crackdown under former President Donald Trump’s administration, which has accused Harvard of fostering antisemitic sentiments and collaborating with the Chinese Communist Party. Harvard has denied these allegations, warning that restricting international students will ultimately harm the U.S. itself.

According to BBC reports, around 6,700 foreign students were enrolled at Harvard in the previous academic session, representing about 27% of its total student body. The Trump administration has already cut federal funding to Harvard by $2 billion after the university refused to comply with a reform list covering governance and admissions policies.