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Time of India
a day ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Trump administration challenges court order allowing international students at Harvard
Trump administration challenges court order allowing international students at Harvard The Trump administration has escalated a high-profile legal battle with Harvard University by filing an appeal against a federal court order that blocked a presidential proclamation aimed at barring international students from attending the institution. The case has drawn global attention to the US education system, raising concerns about academic freedom, the treatment of foreign students, and the broader implications of immigration policy on higher education. The legal dispute centers on a White House proclamation issued on June 4, which accused Harvard of accepting donations from foreign adversaries, specifically referencing Chinese entities. The administration argued that these "entanglements with foreign countries" posed a national security risk, invoking a 70-year-old law designed to restrict the entry of foreign enemies to the US. This action triggered a lawsuit from Harvard, challenging the legitimacy and motivations behind the proclamation. Court order blocks policy, criticizes administration's rationale US District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs issued a strongly worded order blocking the enforcement of the Trump administration's proclamation, pending the resolution of the lawsuit. In her decision, she accused the administration of "misplaced efforts to control a reputable academic institution and squelch diverse viewpoints seemingly because they are, in some instances, opposed to this administration's own views," as quoted by The New York Times. Judge Burroughs also criticized the administration's use of international students as leverage, stating it had acted "with little thought to the consequences to them or, ultimately, to our own citizens." She dismissed the national security argument as 'absurd,' according to The New York Times. Harvard's international community at the center of the conflict Harvard enrolls approximately 7,000 international students and scholars each year, including around 2,000 recent graduates, accounting for nearly 25 percent of its student body. The Trump administration's policy threatened their ability to attend classes in person, raising fears of deportation or forced withdrawal. While the case proceeds through the courts, Harvard has begun developing contingency plans. Some students may be able to study remotely or from international partner institutions. The New York Times reported that the Kennedy School of Government is working with the University of Toronto to accommodate affected students. A growing debate over foreign influence and academic freedom The Trump administration's appeal has intensified an ongoing debate over foreign influence in US academic institutions. Citing previous legal precedent, including the 2017 Supreme Court ruling that upheld travel bans for several majority-Muslim countries, the administration is attempting to frame the Harvard case within the same national security context. As the legal process unfolds, the case is being watched closely both in the US and abroad. Critics argue that targeting international students may harm the reputation and global standing of American higher education institutions. Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
Forbes
11-06-2025
- Politics
- Forbes
Harvard Gains More Allies In Its Lawsuit Against Trump Administration
Several more parties have announced their support for Harvard University's lawsuit against the Trump administration's freezing of more than $2 billion in federal grant money. Last week, 18 of the nation's leading research universities requested that a federal judge allow them to file a legal brief supporting Harvard's lawsuit to recover the funding being withheld by the Trump administration. That request was granted. Now, several more institutions, higher education organizations and coalitions —including teaching hospitals, Harvard alums, and state attorneys general — are coming forward to file amicus curiae (or 'friend of the court') briefs in support of the nation's oldest and wealthiest university. Here's a quick summary of four of the more noteworthy filings. Six more institutions have joined the original 18 universities that requested that Judge Allison D. Burroughs, who's presiding over the federal lawsuit, allow them to file an amicus brief. On Monday, that coalition filed a 19-page amicus brief, that lays out how funding cuts for scientific research endangers a 'longstanding, mutually beneficial arrangement between universities and the American public. Terminating funding disrupts ongoing projects, ruins experiments and datasets, destroys the careers of aspiring scientists, and deters investment in the long-term research that only the academy—with federal funding—can pursue, threatening the pace of progress and undermining American leadership in the process.' Signing the brief were: American University; Boston University; Brown University; California Institute of Technology; Colorado State University; Dartmouth College; Georgetown University; Johns Hopkins University; Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Michigan State University; Oregon State University; Princeton University; Rice University; Rutgers University; Stanford University; Tufts University; University of Delaware; University of Denver; University of Maryland, Baltimore; University of Maryland, College Park; University of Oregon; University of Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh; and Yale University. Attorneys General Also on Monday, a group of 21 attorneys general filed an amicus brief in support of a summary judgment in Harvard's favor. They argue that, in addition to endangering Harvard's research, the funding freeze threatens the economies and health of their states. Massachusetts, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai'i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin were the amici states filing the brief. They wrote that, 'beyond threatening current jobs and businesses, such a freeze would halt career development for promising new scientists and debilitate the pipeline for future innovators in Amici States. It would also prevent research into lifesaving medicines and transformative technologies with potential to improve the health and life of Amici State residents. In short, the federal government's current attack on research universities is, in multiple respects, an attack on the states themselves.' A dozen Boston-area teaching hospitals filed their own amicus brief claiming that the grant terminations at Harvard 'will have the consequence of threatening the Hospitals' work to continually advance medical science.' According to the hospitals, 'the funding cuts will have the unintended, yet real, consequence of damaging the foundation upon which the Hospitals develop medical breakthroughs for their patients. Basic science research—often conducted at universities like Harvard—enables hospitals to do clinical research and develop breakthrough treatments or cures for disease. The Hospitals expand on the insights derived from the basic science research to launch clinical trials, and ultimately, treat and cure patients. The termination of Harvard's federal research grants threatens to stunt future discoveries and medical advances.' Former Harvard students have also joined the fray. More than 12,000 Harvard alumni filed a 14-page brief, condemning the 'Government's reckless and unlawful attempts to assert control over the core functions of Harvard and its fellow institutions of higher education.' The alumni include individuals from Harvard's graduating classes for every single year from 1950 to 2025, and they represent all 50 states, D.C., U.S. territories, and dozens of countries around the world. 'The Government's escalating attacks—and this case—are about much more than funding. The Government strikes at the very core of Harvard: the longstanding practices and values of openness, free inquiry, and mutual respect, and its founding commitment to veritas—the quest for truth above all,' the brief states. And the alumni contend that 'the Government's end goal is to narrow our freedoms to learn, teach, think, and act, and to claim for itself the right to dictate who may enjoy those freedoms.' Harvard has asked that Judge Burroughs grant a summary judgment in the case before September 3, claiming that after that deadline, the administration will argue that it can't reinstate the frozen funds. Oral arguments on the matter are scheduled for July 21.
New Straits Times
08-06-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Higher education ministry monitoring Harvard's foreign student ban
KUALA LUMPUR: The Higher Education Ministry is closely monitoring the recent decision by the United States to revoke Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). According to the ministry, the move by the US Department of Homeland Security on May 22 follows the current administration's actions to prevent Harvard from enrolling new international students. It added that this restriction also puts pressure on existing international students at Harvard to transfer to other institutions to maintain their visa status. The issue is being closely observed through the Education Malaysia office in Washington DC (EMWDC), which is currently monitoring 54 Malaysian students at Harvard — 16 of whom are sponsored, and 38 self-funded. "A recent development, in which the US Federal Court upheld a temporary restraining order filed by Harvard University, offers relief to more than 6,800 international students at the institution," the ministry said in a statement. "This decision allows international students, including Malaysians, to continue their studies without disruptions to their current visa status." The ministry and EMWDC are also liaising with student sponsors and relevant US education authorities. It also welcomed the commitment shown by stakeholders to ensure the welfare of Malaysian students is safeguarded. "In line with the Malaysia Madani concept, the ministry will continue to support Malaysians studying abroad under any circumstances." It was reported recently that a US federal judge temporarily blocked the government's plan to bar international students from enrolling at Harvard University. The temporary injunction, issued by Judge Allison D. Burroughs, prevents the US government from stopping Harvard from continuing to accept international students under its federal programme. Harvard had filed a lawsuit against the federal government in the Massachusetts District Court just hours before the ruling, alleging that the administration of President Donald Trump was unlawfully retaliating against the university. Meanwhile, the ministry also reminded students to regularly update their Optional Practical Training information and to be cautious in all immigration-related matters. Currently, there are no reports of Malaysian students facing issues related to their Student and Exchange Visitor Information System records or visa revocations. "New students scheduled to begin their studies at Harvard this September are advised to contact the university and their respective sponsors directly to get the latest updates before making any further decisions. "Malaysia believes that cross-border higher education is vital for global talent development, knowledge exchange, and strategic international collaboration.
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Federal judge blocks Trump administration's attempt to ban Harvard's international students: What it means for students
Federal judge blocks Trump administration's attempt to ban Harvard's international students In a significant legal decision with national implications, US District Judge Allison D. Burroughs has extended an order that blocks the Trump administration from revoking Harvard University's certification to host international students. This ruling preserves the university's ability to enrol foreign nationals and provides temporary relief to thousands of students whose academic futures were under threat. Earlier this year, the Department of Homeland Security withdrew Harvard's authorisation under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), citing vague national security concerns and alleged procedural violations. This action effectively halted the university's ability to support the legal status of its international student population—affecting not only new applicants but also over 6,800 currently enrolled students. Harvard responded with a legal challenge, asserting that the decision lacked factual justification and disproportionately harmed international students. The university also argued that the move undermined academic independence and was driven more by political motives than actual policy concerns. The court's ruling offers a temporary relief The federal court's ruling temporarily halts the implementation of the administration's order. Judge Burroughs determined that the potential damage to students and the institution outweighed the government's stated concerns. She found that the administration failed to present a compelling justification for such a disruptive and sweeping policy action. This judicial decision effectively restores Harvard's ability to issue the necessary documentation for student visas, ensuring that international students can continue their studies without the risk of legal status complications or forced departures. Renewed uncertainty for students The immediate impact of the ruling is the preservation of stability for thousands of students, many of whom had faced the prospect of losing their right to remain in the country. Students from India, China, South Korea, and numerous other countries now have clarity regarding their enrolment, travel plans, and access to internships or research opportunities. However, the injunction is temporary, and the case will continue to move through the courts. This leaves a lingering sense of uncertainty, particularly for students planning to apply for upcoming academic terms or those in the process of renewing their visa status. The ruling serves as a reminder of the essential role that international students play in American academia—not only as contributors to campus diversity but also as researchers, innovators, and future leaders. Institutions like Harvard rely heavily on their global appeal and collaborative international networks, which are at risk when abrupt policy changes destabilise student participation. The case also reinforces the legal principle that federal agencies must justify major policy shifts with evidence, especially when those decisions impact education, livelihoods, and long-term planning for students and families. A moment of mobilisation In response to the administration's initial action, student groups and faculty mobilised in protest and advocacy. While the court's decision provides a degree of reassurance, student organisations continue to offer legal assistance, counselling, and guidance to international students navigating complex immigration systems. Universities across the country have also expressed solidarity, recognising that the outcome of this case could set a precedent affecting all U.S. institutions that host foreign students. While the court has provided a reprieve, the long-term legal resolution remains pending. The final outcome could redefine the extent of federal oversight in university operations, especially as it pertains to student visas and international academic exchange. For now, students and universities alike are watching closely. The case represents not only a defense of legal rights and academic freedom but also a broader battle over the values of openness, diversity, and intellectual collaboration that have long defined American higher education. Ready to empower your child for the AI era? Join our program now! Hurry, only a few seats left.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Judge extends order blocking Trump administration from revoking Harvard's ability to enroll foreign students
A federal judge on Thursday extended a temporary order blocking the Trump administration's revocation of Harvard's ability to enroll international students. The extension came after the Trump administration said it would give the university 30 days to challenge the revocation, according to a letter attached to a Wednesday night court filing. The court document states that the Department of Homeland Security is asking Harvard "to submit sworn statements and documentary or other evidence to rebut the grounds for withdrawal of certification" under the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Program, which allows Harvard to enroll foreign students. That includes misconduct records of its international students and a requirement that the university maintains "a campus environment free from violence and antisemitism," according to the May 28 letter. Last week, the Trump administration revoked Harvard's ability to enroll foreign students. Hours later, U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs temporarily blocked the administration's effort. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem posted the letter on X on Thursday. "Harvard's refusal to comply with SEVP oversight was the latest evidence that it disdains the American people and takes for granted U.S. taxpayer benefits," Noem wrote, referring to the foreign student program. "Following our letter to Harvard, the school attempted to claim it now wishes to comply with SEVP standards." "We continue to reject Harvard's repeated pattern of endangering its students and spreading American hate — it must change its ways in order to participate in American programs," she added. Harvard did not immediately return a request for comment. Burroughs said she would leave the temporary order in place until it can be replaced by a preliminary injunction. No date or timeline was discussed Thursday for when a formal injunction might be issued. Burroughs' extension of the order came on the deay of the university's 347th graduation ceremony. If the revocation is successful, foreign students studying at Harvard will lose their ability to stay in the United States unless they transfer schools. International students make up roughly one-fourth of the university's student body. The Trump administration is also battling the nation's oldest — and arguably most prestigious — university in court over the funding from the federal government that gives Harvard the ability to conduct state-of-the-art research. Last month, the administration stripped Harvard of $2 billion in federal research grants, prompting Harvard to sue. On Monday, Trump said on his social media website, Truth Social, that he was considering taking $3 billion in grant money away from Harvard and giving it to trade schools instead. Harvard President Alan Garber, in an interview Tuesday with NPR, said he was "less concerned about whether it goes to a trade school or if it goes to some other project, like working on highways." "What the real question is, how much value does the federal government get from its expenditures on research?" Garber said. The legal battles came shortly after Harvard refused to comply with a list of sweeping demands from the Trump administration's Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism last month. The task force wanted to oversee who Harvard admits and hires and subject its faculty to a government audit. The confrontation with Harvard is among the Trump administration's broader efforts to determine who has access to higher education in the U.S. On Tuesday, the administration stopped scheduling new interviews for international students seeking visas to study in the U.S., according to an internal cable seen by NBC News. The State Department will also expand its screening of visa applicants' social media use, according to the cable. This article was originally published on
