August 08, 2025
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) seems to be easing its stance regarding the potential revocation of Harvard University’s ability to host international students, a situation that is currently under legal scrutiny.
The administration has made a proposal to Harvard aimed at simplifying the ongoing legal conflict by retracting previous threats outlined in a letter dated May 22 from the DHS secretary, Kristi Noem, which indicated the possibility of revoking the university’s capacity to host international students.
In her correspondence, Noem accused Harvard of not complying with legal requirements, which led to the decision to withdraw its certification for the Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP). In response, Harvard initiated legal action, and a judge swiftly issued a temporary restraining order to prevent the federal government from proceeding with the revocation, a move that could have severely impacted the university’s international student population and financial stability. Additionally, Harvard had previously filed a lawsuit against the administration concerning halted federal research funding.
In its legal filing, Harvard contended that the proposed revocation was a clear infringement on First Amendment rights and due process, suggesting that it was a retaliatory action by the federal government following the university’s refusal to comply with demands regarding its governance and academic freedom. The lawsuit highlighted that such a revocation could potentially displace a significant portion of Harvard’s student body and adversely affect those already enrolled.
Recently, in a court document submitted on Wednesday, government lawyers acknowledged that the May 22 letter would not be utilized to revoke Harvard’s SEVP certification or its designation for the Exchange Visitor Program. They described this proposal as an effort to collaboratively simplify the ongoing case.
DHS representatives expressed their willingness to consider alternative proposals and engage in discussions, although they noted that Harvard had not accepted this invitation.
While Harvard has chosen not to comment on the matter, the DHS has not responded to requests for clarification.
As the legal battle continues, the administration has sought other avenues to exert pressure on Harvard. Recently, the U.S. Department of State announced an investigation into the university’s eligibility for the Exchange Visitor Program, which is responsible for issuing J-1 visas to visiting scholars and researchers. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the investigation aims to ensure that such programs align with national interests.
There have been various reports suggesting that Harvard is close to reaching a settlement with the administration, which has made numerous claims against the university, including vague allegations of misconduct and accusations of antisemitism. The administration has demanded significant changes at Harvard, which the institution has largely resisted.
Democratic members of Congress have indicated that they may launch an investigation if Harvard agrees to a settlement.
If a settlement is reached, it would mark the third Ivy League institution to do so with the federal government since mid-July. Columbia University was the first to agree to a settlement that resolved investigations into allegations of antisemitism and restored some frozen research funding in exchange for modifications to its admissions and academic programs, overseen by an independent monitor. Columbia’s settlement included a payment of $221 million.
Brown University also reached an agreement in late July to settle investigations related to antisemitism and restore approximately $510 million in frozen federal research funds. As part of its settlement, Brown committed to investing $50 million in state workforce development, providing admissions data to the federal government, and implementing restrictions on transgender athletes.
Beyond the Ivy League, the University of California system recently announced its intention to negotiate with the federal government regarding $584 million in suspended federal funding amid ongoing investigations into alleged antisemitism. UC officials are seeking a voluntary resolution agreement with the administration to restore funding.
Editorial Webcast
Discover insights into how Chief Business Officers perceive and address critical issues such as financial health, campus planning, and affordability.
4/5 Articles remaining this month.