The Trump administration signaled on Thursday it might back away from plans to immediately revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students and would instead pursue a lengthier administrative process, reports Reuters.
According to a court filing, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security sent Harvard a notice of intent on Wednesday to withdraw the school’s certification under the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which allows Harvard to enroll non-U.S. students.
Harvard has denied Trump administration charges of alleged bias against conservatives, fostering antisemitism on campus and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party. It has 30 days to respond to the notice.
The notice came ahead of a scheduled hearing before U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs in Boston over whether to extend a temporary order blocking U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration from revoking the Ivy League school’s right to host international students.
Last week’s US government’s de-certification of Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) was a major setback for one of the most coveted Ivy League colleges in America. This essentially meant that for the 2025–2026 academic year, Harvard would not be able to sponsor F and J visas for scholars and international students.
Thereafter, Harvard moved the court. Harvard’s application was approved by the court, enabling the university to keep accepting scholars and students from abroad while the issue is pending. The federal judge granted Harvard a temporary restraining order in its lawsuit to prevent the Trump administration from revoking its ability to admit overseas students.
In April, the Trump administration blocked more than $2 billion in research funding and contracts, citing charges that Harvard had failed to combat antisemitism on campus. Furthermore, the Trump administration has ordered government agencies to cancel almost $100 million in remaining contracts with Harvard by June 6.
Today, Harvard University celebrating the achievements of their exceptional degree candidates in the class of 2025. Harvard University’s 374th Commencement is being held on May 29.