On May 23, 2025, U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order halting the Trump administration’s attempt to bar Harvard University from enrolling international students. This decision came swiftly after Harvard filed a lawsuit challenging the administration’s move, which the university described as unconstitutional retaliation for resisting federal demands over its governance and academic policies.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under Secretary Kristi Noem, had revoked Harvard’s certification to enroll foreign students, citing concerns over campus safety and alleged antisemitism. The administration accused Harvard of fostering a hostile environment for Jewish students and failing to provide requested data on foreign students involved in misconduct. Harvard countered these claims, asserting that it had complied with legal obligations and that the revocation threatened the legal status of over 7,000 international students, who comprise approximately 27% of its student body.
Judge Burroughs agreed with Harvard’s argument that the university would suffer immediate and irreparable harm without the injunction, thereby maintaining the status quo until a further hearing scheduled for May 29. This ruling not only affects Harvard but also has broader implications for U.S. higher education institutions and their international students.
The Trump administration’s actions are part of a broader policy initiative aimed at combating antisemitism on campuses, as outlined in Executive Order 14188. However, critics argue that these measures infringe upon academic freedom and target institutions that do not align with the administration’s political views. Harvard’s lawsuit contends that the government’s actions violate the First Amendment and due process rights, and are part of a campaign to exert control over academic institutions.
Internationally, the move has raised concerns about the U.S.’s commitment to academic freedom and its attractiveness to foreign students. For instance, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology extended invitations to affected Harvard students, highlighting the potential global ramifications of the administration’s policies.
This legal battle underscores the tension between federal authority and institutional autonomy, particularly concerning immigration and education policies. As the case proceeds, its outcome may set significant precedents for the rights of educational institutions and the status of international students in the United States.