White House: Trump signs proclamation to restrict foreign student visas at Harvard University

White House: Trump signs proclamation to restrict foreign student visas at Harvard University

In a move aimed at enhancing national security, President Donald J. Trump signed a proclamation on June 4, 2025, to suspend the entry of foreign nationals seeking to study or participate in exchange programs at Harvard University. The proclamation suspends the entry into the United States of any new Harvard student as a nonimmigrant under F, M, or J visas, and directs the Secretary of State to consider revoking existing visas for current students who meet the criteria [1].

The White House has cited concerns over Harvard's handling of foreign students and its ties with foreign adversaries. The FBI has warned about foreign adversaries exploiting American higher education for espionage and information theft. Additionally, Harvard has been criticized for failing to adequately report disciplinary records and has received significant funding from China, including over $150 million [1].

Harvard has 30 days to contest the administration's efforts, as per a notice from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) [2]. The Ivy League institution is facing potential restrictions on its federal funding and students. Harvard's president, Alan Garber, delivered a commencement address on June 5, 2025, emphasizing the university's mission and the potential of its graduates [2].

The proclamation is part of a broader effort to ensure that foreign students at U.S. universities are individuals who can positively contribute to the country. President Trump has stated that he wants foreign students who can love the country and not cause trouble [1].

References:
[1] https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/06/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-restricts-foreign-student-visas-at-harvard-university/
[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-harvard-foreign-students-ban-30-days-to-reply/