Washington/Cambridge, May 23 (HS): The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has revoked the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification of Harvard University, requiring foreign students studying at the university either to transfer to another institution or leave the U.S. Harvard University has termed DHS’s action as retaliatory and illegal.

In a statement issued by DHS, it said that this action is part of a policy of the Trump administration, which has accused Harvard of collusion with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), promoting violence, anti-Semitism, and supporting terrorist activities.

According to DHS, on April 16, 2025, Secretary Kristi Noem requested information from Harvard regarding the alleged criminal records and disciplinary issues of foreign students. When the university refused to provide this information, DHS decided to revoke the SEVP certification.

Earlier, in April, DHS had also canceled a grant of $2.7 million (approximately ₹22.5 crore) given to Harvard.

In response, Harvard University has reacted strongly to DHS’s action, calling it illegal and retaliatory. Harvard stated in its announcement, Harvard remains fully committed to hosting international students and scholars from over 140 countries. This action could have serious implications for the university’s reputation, the future of students, and academic freedom.

Harvard argues that this action is contrary to U.S. law and academic autonomy and can be challenged in court.

—————–

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar