The Trump administration has issued a stern warning to Harvard University, threatening to revoke its ability to enroll international students unless it complies with federal requests for detailed information about certain visa holders. This marks a major escalation in the ongoing tensions between the government and prestigious academic institutions.
On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem demanded that Harvard submit records concerning foreign students allegedly involved in what she labeled as “illegal and violent activities.” The deadline for compliance is April 30. She warned that failure to meet these requirements would strip Harvard of its authority to accept foreign students.
Read more: Harvard Stands Up to Trump, Risks $2.3 Billion in Federal Funding
Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security has canceled two federal grants worth over $2.7 million previously awarded to the university. Noem criticized Harvard’s substantial $53.2 billion endowment, implying it could be used to support what she referred to as disruptive activities.
This development is part of a broader crackdown by the Trump administration on student-led protests opposing U.S. support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The government has described these demonstrations—some involving foreign students—as “pro-Hamas” and “anti-American.”
In response, Harvard stated it would comply with legal obligations but firmly declared its commitment to institutional autonomy and constitutional rights. A university spokesperson confirmed receipt of the federal notice and emphasized Harvard’s ongoing evaluation of the issues raised.
This latest move is consistent with growing federal pressure on various U.S. universities, particularly those accused by the administration of tolerating antisemitic behavior or extremist views under the banner of free expression. Other Ivy League schools like Columbia, Princeton, Cornell, Brown, and Northwestern have also reportedly had funds withdrawn or visa checks intensified.
Earlier in the week, Harvard defied several federal demands, including the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and a ban on wearing masks on campus—policies viewed by many as part of broader cultural and political battles.
In retaliation, the administration froze $2.3 billion in federal funding for Harvard and announced a review of an additional $9 billion in contracts and grants. Furthermore, President Trump threatened to strip the university of its tax-exempt status, a move that legal experts argue could have dangerous implications. The IRS is currently reviewing this proposal, with a decision expected soon.
Harvard has strongly opposed these actions, warning that the loss of its tax-exempt status could drastically reduce financial aid and hinder essential medical research. Despite increasing federal scrutiny, the university has pledged to uphold academic freedom, ensure peaceful protest rights, and continue fighting antisemitism and other forms of discrimination.
