Harvard & Trump Administration – International Student Visa Ban

On June 4, 2025, President Donald Trump issued a proclamation banning the entry of international students(F- and J-visas) attending Harvard, citing national security and administrative concerns.

Harvard’s Legal Response

• Harvard amended an existing lawsuit and sought emergency relief.
• A federal judge granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) blocking the ban from being enforced while the case proceeds.

Legal Grounds:

• Harvard argues the move is retaliatory, unconstitutional under the First Amendment, and violates administrative and immigration law.
• The university claims it’s being singled out due to political disagreements.

Key Date:

• A major hearing on the injunction is scheduled for June 16, 2025.

Federal Research Funding Freeze

Issue:

So, Harvard’s access to over $2.2–3 billion in federal research funding was frozen by multiple U.S. government agencies (NIH, HHS, DoD) in April 2025.

Harvard’s Response:

• Also, Filed a separate lawsuit in April.
• As of early June, Harvard has requested summary judgment and a permanent injunction to restore the funds, warning that projects will be shut down by September without relief.

Support:

• Backed by 12,000+ alumni, 24 universities (including 5 other Ivies), and 18 research institutions.
• Notable support from state attorneys general, including Letitia James of New York.

Legal Claims:

• Also, Harvard alleges the funding freeze is unlawful retaliation for the university’s independent positions.
• Moreover, it challenges the decision on grounds of due process, academic freedom, and equal protection.

Key Date:

• July 21, 2025: Oral arguments on summary judgment.

Why This Matters

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