In a move that has sparked widespread controversy both internationally and domestically, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued conflicting messages regarding foreign students. While publicly welcoming international scholars, he simultaneously signed an executive order effectively barring many from enrolling at Harvard University.
Executive Order Blocks Harvard Enrollment
On Wednesday evening, President Trump signed a proclamation suspending the issuance of new student visas (F, M, and J categories) for foreign nationals intending to study at Harvard. The administration cited national security concerns and accused Harvard of refusing to share detailed information about its international students.
“Considering these facts, I have determined it is necessary to restrict the entry of foreign nationals who seek to enter the United States solely or principally to participate in study at Harvard University,” the order stated.
This action follows escalating tensions between the Trump administration and the Ivy League school. Earlier, the White House froze $2.5 million in federal research funds to Harvard and threatened to withhold an additional $450 million unless the university complied with government data requests.
Trump Softens Tone, But Conditions Remain
A day after the ban, Trump appeared to moderate his stance during an Oval Office briefing, saying, “We want to have foreign students come. It’s our honour to have them, frankly.” However, he quickly added that these students must be “checked,” specifically pointing to Harvard, Columbia, and other institutions, insisting the government needed access to their student lists.
“The issue is not with foreign students per se, but with the lack of transparency from elite institutions like Harvard,” Trump emphasized. He later confirmed that Harvard had begun cooperating with the administration’s demands, stating, “I think they’re starting to behave, actually, if you want to know the truth.”
The President clarified the intent was not to exclude international students entirely but to increase scrutiny, particularly for those enrolled in sensitive fields.
Concerns Among Students and Education Experts
The conflicting messages have unsettled education professionals and students worldwide. Ankita Thakker, CEO of Education Street, remarked on the growing uncertainty among Indian students planning to study in the U.S.
“Many students and parents are reconsidering their plans due to this unclear and uncertain environment. Trump’s targeting of Harvard is viewed as a direct attack on students genuinely seeking education and career growth in the U.S.,” she said.
Thakker also noted that recent pauses in F-1 visa appointments in India have left many applicants in limbo. “The claim that universities fail to properly vet students is unfounded. The U.S. admission process is already rigorous. This situation sends a troubling message to international education seekers,” she added. Despite this, she remains hopeful: “Indian students are deeply integrated into the U.S. academic system. We expect these issues to resolve. Students should hold on—better days lie ahead.”
Akshay Chaturvedi, Founder and CEO of Leverage Edu, offered reassurance on social media, urging students to focus on their studies amid the turmoil.
“We are students focused on learning and building character. Our goal is to build lives that make our families proud. Let’s stay focused and move forward,” he said.
Legal Challenges
The executive order has encountered immediate legal pushback. A federal judge in Boston issued a temporary injunction blocking its enforcement, allowing Harvard to continue admitting international students pending further judicial review.
Harvard, alongside civil liberties organizations and academic coalitions, has challenged the order’s legality, warning it could harm the United States’ global standing in higher education.
Related Topics
