Harvard SEVP ban: which universities are stepping up to support international students?

Indian Express

25-05-2025

The Trump administration revoked Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) earlier this week. The ban is effectively barring the university from enrolling international students and requiring nearly 6,800 current foreign enrollees to potentially face transfer or risk deportation.
In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit challenging the administration's decision, arguing that the revocation violated the First Amendment, the due process clause, and the administrative procedure.
Subsequently, a federal judge in Boston issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from enforcing the SEVP revocation. The judge's order prevents the government from 'implementing, instituting, maintaining, or giving effect' to the revocation until a court hearing is held.
Following the legal action and the uncertain landscape for international students in the US, several global institutions and organisations stepped forward with support plans for Harvard's displaced F-1 visa holders. These measures, ranging from open admissions to full scholarships, offer alternative pathways for students affected by the US policy decision.
Tetr College of Business: full scholarships for Harvard F-1 students
Tetr College of Business launched a dedicated full-scholarship programme for incoming and current Harvard students holding F-1 visas. The initiative is part of Tetr's $10 million global scholarship fund and covers full tuition, normally around $200,000, for students enrolling in its August 2025 undergraduate cohort. Two programmes are available – Management and Technology, and Science and Artificial Intelligence.
How can students apply?
Students may apply by emailing [e-mail] with:
–A short note explaining their visa status
–Proof of Harvard enrollment or admission
–A brief academic or personal profile
Multiple institutes in Hong Kong announce support for students
Among other countries and regions, the Hong Kong Education Bureau (Hong Kong SAR Government) has taken a proactive measure towards international students potentially facing deportation.
Christine Choi, Hong Kong's Secretary for Education, urged all Hong Kong universities to introduce 'facilitation measures' for international students impacted by the US ban. According to local media reports, the city announced relaxed admission quotas, accelerated processing of students, and proactive efforts to welcome 'talented students' affected by the policy change.
Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
HKBU reaffirmed its commitment to internationalisation, stating that it had a history of 'recruiting outstanding non-local students'. The university offered support to any displaced international student who chooses to enrol, promising assistance 'based on actual circumstances'.
City University of Hong Kong (CityU): academic continuity and co-supervision options
CityU announced support for international students facing academic disruption, including those at the doctoral level. The university extended offers to transfer students and said it would even arrange for their original PhD supervisors (outside Hong Kong) to co-supervise research work.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK): support on research incentives
CUHK emphasised its goal of attracting outstanding students globally and its commitment to offer 'comprehensive support.' The university is also exploring additional research funding to attract scholars who may now be seeking academic opportunities outside the US.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU): streamlined transfer and full programme admission
PolyU invited students either enrolled or admitted to Harvard and other top US institutions to transfer directly into its undergraduate or postgraduate programmes. The university promised to 'facilitate the swift transition,' offering:
–Full acceptance
–Dedicated contact points
–Personalised guidance throughout the process
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
HKUST extended an open invitation to all affected international students—whether currently enrolled or holding offers from Harvard.
The university will provide:
–Unconditional offers
–Streamlined admission procedures
–Academic credit transfers
–Visa assistance and housing support
The move is aimed at ensuring students can continue their academic pursuits with minimal disruption.