Trump Demands Harvard Limit International Students to 15%

On May 28, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his demand for Harvard University to limit the proportion of international students to 15%, a significant reduction from the current 31%. Trump's rationale is that the high number of international students is limiting opportunities for American students to gain admission to the prestigious institution. This latest move is part of a series of actions by the Trump administration aimed at curbing the university's international student intake.

The administration has taken several steps in recent weeks to exert pressure on Harvard. On May 22, the U.S. government revoked Harvard's designation under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, effectively barring the university from enrolling new international students. Additionally, on May 27, it was reported that the Trump administration was considering the cancellation of all federal funding allocated to Harvard University. Furthermore, the government has suspended new student visa interviews and is exploring the expansion of social media vetting for international students.

Trump's latest demand is part of a broader push to limit the number of international students in U.S. universities. The president has repeatedly expressed concern that the high number of international students is displacing American students from coveted spots in top-tier institutions. By setting a 15% cap on international student enrollment, Trump aims to ensure that more opportunities are available for domestic students.

The administration's actions have sparked controversy and debate. Critics argue that limiting international student enrollment could harm the academic and cultural diversity of U.S. universities, which have long been magnets for talent from around the world. Proponents, however, see the move as a necessary step to protect American students' access to higher education.

Harvard University has not yet responded to Trump's latest demands, but the institution has historically resisted government interference in its admissions policies. The university has long prided itself on its diverse student body, which includes students from various countries and backgrounds. The outcome of this latest round of pressure from the Trump administration remains to be seen, but it is clear that the issue of international student enrollment will continue to be a contentious one in the coming months.

On May 23, Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in response to the government's ban on international students. The case is currently under review, with a hearing scheduled for May 29. Federal Judge Allison Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order on May 23, halting the enforcement of the Trump administration's ban on international students at Harvard. The upcoming hearing will determine whether to extend this temporary order.

Throughout the year, Harvard has taken legal action against the U.S. government on multiple occasions. On April 21, the university sued the government, alleging that it was attempting to manipulate Harvard's academic decisions by freezing federal funds. The ongoing legal battles highlight the tension between the Trump administration's policies and Harvard's commitment to academic freedom and diversity.