Washington, June 5, 2025 – The Europe Today: U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a presidential proclamation suspending the entry of foreign nationals seeking to study or participate in exchange programs at Harvard University, the White House announced on Wednesday, amid a growing dispute between the administration and the Ivy League institution, according to media reports.
The proclamation further directs the U.S. Department of State to “consider revoking” existing academic or exchange visas held by current Harvard students who fall under the criteria specified in the order.
The decision marks a significant escalation in tensions between the federal government and one of the United States’ most prominent academic institutions. While the precise grounds for the proclamation have not been publicly detailed, media outlets suggest the move stems from long-standing disagreements over academic independence, immigration policy, and national security concerns.
Analysts note that the directive could impact hundreds of international students and scholars currently affiliated with Harvard, as well as future applicants from around the world who had planned to attend the university under student or exchange visa programs.
As of now, no official statement has been issued by Harvard University in response to the proclamation. However, legal experts and education advocates have raised concerns over the potential implications of the decision on U.S. higher education and international academic collaboration.
Further details, including implementation measures and appeal processes, are expected to be released by the Department of State and Department of Homeland Security in the coming days.
