The Trump administration has threatened to strip Harvard University of its ability to host international students, declaring “it is a privilege to have foreign students attend Harvard University, not a guarantee,” according to a letter from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.
The threat comes as part of a broader campaign against elite universities, with the administration also suggesting Harvard could lose its tax-exempt status. President Trump has accused the university of promoting “political, ideological, and terrorist inspired/supporting sickness.”
DHS has demanded Harvard provide detailed records on all student visa holders by April 30, including information about illegal activities and potential threats to others. The university risks losing its certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program if it fails to comply.
International students make up approximately 27% of Harvard’s student body, making the threat particularly consequential for the institution. The administration has already frozen over $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts, while revoking $2.7 million in previously awarded grants.
The tax-exempt status threat represents another front in this confrontation. “Perhaps Harvard should lose its Tax Exempt Status and be Taxed as a Political Entity if it keeps pushing political, ideological, and terrorist inspired/supporting sickness?” Trump stated in his criticism of the university.
Under Section 501(c)(3), the IRS can rescind tax exemption if it finds violations such as excessive political activity. Such a move would severely impact Harvard’s ability to provide financial aid and conduct medical research.
Harvard’s refusal to comply with administration demands has raised concerns about academic freedom and government control over educational institutions. Other universities have reportedly complied with similar demands to maintain funding and avoid visa issues.
The confrontation highlights the administration’s increasing pressure on institutions it perceives as promoting political activism rather than aligning with what it defines as “American values.”
“It is a privilege to have foreign students attend Harvard University, not a guarantee,” Noem emphasized in her communication—a statement that may define the administration’s approach to higher education policy moving forward.