Federal judge indefinitely blocks Trump administration from cutting off Harvard’s ability to host foreign students

A federal judge has issued an indefinite injunction preventing the Trump administration from revoking Harvard University's authorization to host international students and scholars. This decision, made by US District Judge Allison Burroughs, extends a previous temporary block that was put in place last month. The administration had attempted to revoke Harvard's certification in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which is essential for the university to enroll foreign students. The legal proceedings surrounding this matter have intensified following President Donald Trump's proclamation suspending international visas for new students, prompting Judge Burroughs to intervene on an emergency basis to halt that order in early June. The implications of these legal battles extend not only to Harvard but also to the broader community of international students in the United States, raising significant concerns about the accessibility of higher education during the ongoing legal disputes.

The university's legal challenges to the Trump administration's policies reflect a broader struggle over immigration and educational access in the United States. The judge is currently deliberating whether to issue a more permanent ruling regarding the president's proclamation on visa suspensions, indicating the complexity and urgency of the situation. The outcome of these legal battles could have lasting effects on international student enrollment at Harvard and other universities across the nation. As the case develops, it underscores the tension between federal immigration policy and the interests of educational institutions that rely on a diverse, international student body. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the legal proceedings continue to unfold in the coming weeks.