Federal judge extends injunction against Trump administration’s ban on foreign students at Harvard University.

BOSTON — A federal judge has extended an injunction that prevents the Trump administration from restricting Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students. U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs granted a preliminary injunction in response to Harvard’s request, halting the government’s action until the case is fully resolved, following an earlier temporary restraining order issued just a week ago.

The federal legal dispute commenced when Harvard filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security after Secretary Kristi Noem revoked the university’s certification to host foreign students. The revocation comes amidst a broader conflict between the administration and the nation’s oldest institution of higher education.

On May 22, the Trump administration announced its intent to withdraw Harvard’s certification, claiming it was based on accusations of improper coordination with foreign entities and inadequate responses to incidents of antisemitism on campus. Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) director, Todd Lyons, sent Harvard a letter outlining these claims and provided a 30-day period for the university to respond.

This situation escalates an ongoing standoff between Harvard and the Trump administration, which has previously demanded extensive documentation from the university related to foreign students, including disciplinary records and information concerning “dangerous or violent activity.” According to Noem, this inquiry was prompted by accusations of antisemitism at Harvard.

Harvard contends that it has complied with the government’s requests. However, the administration deemed the university’s responses insufficient and moved to remove its status under the federal program that allows universities to sponsor international students seeking U.S. visas, a decision that would take effect immediately and inhibit Harvard from enrolling foreign students in the upcoming academic year.

In its legal filing, Harvard argued that the government did not adhere to the necessary administrative procedures that specify how a university may be removed from international student sponsorship eligibility. These regulations mandate that educational institutions be offered the opportunity to appeal any such decisions within a designated period.

Notably, the punitive measures enacted by the Trump administration have instigated an atmosphere of anxiety among international students at Harvard. Reports indicate that many have begun to contemplate transferring to other institutions, with some domestic students expressing interest in deferring or relocating in response to anticipated changes in their academic environment.

Additionally, the situation has affected the processing of international students’ visas, with reports of increased scrutiny from Customs and Border Protection agents and delays or denials at U.S. embassies and consulates.

The implications of the administration’s actions could disrupt graduate programs that rely heavily on international enrollment, with some institutions abroad proactively reaching out to students from Harvard. The administration’s criticism of Harvard includes accusations of promoting a liberal agenda and not adequately protecting Jewish students from harassment, which has led to demands for changes in university policies and governance to align with the current political climate.

In response, Harvard has asserted its commitment to preserving the autonomy that has long characterized American higher education, arguing that the administration’s actions represent political retaliation against the institution for standing firm against governmental pressures. This legal battle continues to unfold as tensions between the university and the administration deepen.

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