Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration’s Ban on Harvard’s International Students

A federal judge in Massachusetts has issued a temporary restraining order halting the Trump administration’s attempt to revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students. The decision comes after Harvard filed a lawsuit challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) move, which the university argues would unlawfully remove over 7,000 foreign students—nearly a quarter of its student body—from its campus.

The DHS, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, had rescinded Harvard’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), citing concerns over alleged campus antisemitism and the presence of “anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators” among international students.

U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs, appointed by former President Barack Obama, ruled that the administration’s action would cause “immediate and irreparable injury” to Harvard and its students. The restraining order allows the university to continue enrolling international students while the legal proceedings continue.

The Trump administration criticized the judge’s decision, with a White House spokesperson stating that it interferes with national security and immigration authority. The administration maintains that it is committed to restoring “common sense” to the student visa system and expects a higher court to uphold its position.

This legal battle is part of a broader conflict between Harvard and the Trump administration over federal funding and oversight. Earlier this year, the administration froze $2.3 billion in federal research funding to Harvard and threatened to revoke the university’s tax-exempt status, citing noncompliance with federal policies aimed at campus safety and combating antisemitism.

Harvard’s President, Alan Garber, condemned the administration’s actions as “illegal and unjustified,” reaffirming the university’s commitment to its international students and the principle of academic freedom.

The case is ongoing, with a hearing scheduled for May 29 to consider whether to issue a preliminary injunction. Legal experts suggest that the outcome could have significant implications for international student policies across American universities.