The administration of United States President, Donald Trump has withdrawn Harvard University’s approval to admit international students, including Nigerians.
According to a report by CNN, the move has escalated tensions between the US federal government and the prestigious Ivy League university over compliance with immigration regulations.
In a statement released on Thursday, the US Department of Homeland Security said: “Harvard can no longer enroll foreign students and existing foreign students must transfer or risk losing their legal status.”
The decision follows an order by the Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, who directed that Harvard’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program be terminated.
The department had earlier asked the university to submit detailed information on international students allegedly involved in “illegal and violent activities” before 30th April or face sanctions.
This action is expected to affect many, especially among Harvard’s international population, which currently includes 9,970 individuals. For the ongoing 2024–2025 academic session, international students account for 27.2% of Harvard’s enrolment, totaling 6,793 students.
Reacting to the development, Harvard condemned the government’s action, describing it as “unlawful.” The university also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its international students.
“We are working quickly to provide guidance and support to members of our community. This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission,” said Jason Newton, a spokesperson for the university.
