Harvard Sues Trump Administration Over Revocation of International Student Enrollment Certification

 

Harvard Sues Trump Administration Over Revocation of International Student Enrollment Certification

Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. federal government following the decision to revoke its certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) for the 2025–26 academic year. The removal of the university’s authority, which affects its ability to enroll international students—including Nigerians—has been described by Harvard as unlawful, retaliatory, and a threat to academic independence.

The university contends that the action stems from the government’s claim that Harvard failed to respond adequately to information requests from the Department of Homeland Security, a charge Harvard refutes, asserting full compliance with legal requirements. Harvard regards the move as part of an “illegal assertion of control” over its curriculum, faculty, and student body.

See also: Gary Neville Banned by Nottingham Forest Over Scathing Ownership Criticism

Harvard announced it will pursue a temporary restraining order and emphasized its commitment to supporting its international students and scholars, who comprise over a quarter of its student body, including nearly 6,800 students from abroad. The university reaffirmed that international students are essential to its community and mission.

This issue follows a directive from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, demanding records related to alleged “illegal and violent activities” by foreign students, threatening Harvard’s certification. The university has expressed its intent to contest the action legally while maintaining support for its international community.