Federal Judge Keeps Harvard Open to International Students

Federal Judge Blocks Ban, Keeps Harvard Open to International Students

By Undergragra Global Education Desk

In a major relief for international education advocates, a U.S. federal judge on June 24, 2025, blocked attempts to prevent Harvard University from enrolling new international students—temporarily preserving its ability to sponsor student visas.

The ruling halts a controversial move backed by elements within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which sought to revoke Harvard’s authority to issue I-20 forms, a critical document required for international students to obtain F-1 visas.

⚖️ What the Ruling Means:

• Harvard can continue admitting international students under existing visa processes

• The university retains access to SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System)

• The block is temporary, pending further legal proceedings

The decision has brought relief to hundreds of admitted international students, many of whom had feared losing their place due to political and administrative tensions.

“This is a win, at least for now,” said an education consultant in Lagos. “Students who already hold admission offers can proceed with confidence, but we’re advising them to act quickly and monitor developments.”

Context:

Harvard has been under intense political pressure, with federal authorities citing alleged compliance issues, including claims of foreign influence and concerns around campus safety. The attempt to bar international admissions was seen by critics as part of a broader crackdown on elite U.S. institutions.

Currently, over 20% of Harvard’s student body is composed of international students, many pursuing postgraduate degrees in law, business, public policy, and the sciences.