President Donald Trump has proposed that Harvard University cap its foreign student enrollment at 15%, down from the current 31%, citing concerns over admissions accessibility for domestic students. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday, Trump emphasized the need for transparency from Harvard regarding its international student population.
“Harvard has to show us their lists,” Trump said. “They have foreign students. About 31 percent of their students are foreign-based. We want to know where those students come from.”
The president suggested that reducing the number of international students would allow more American students to attend prestigious institutions like Harvard. “We have people who want to go to Harvard and other schools; they can’t get in because we have foreign students there,” he added.
In response to the administration’s stance, Harvard has filed a lawsuit against the federal government. A federal judge in Massachusetts has temporarily blocked measures that would affect the university’s international student programs, with a court hearing scheduled for May 29 to decide on further actions.
The Trump administration has also warned universities that failure to adjust their policies could result in funding cuts. The administration’s demands include addressing issues on campus related to antisemitism and diversity initiatives.
Harvard is currently facing significant challenges, including frozen funds and multiple investigations. The Department of Homeland Security recently announced changes affecting Harvard’s eligibility for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, intensifying pressures on the university.
As of fall 2023, international students make up more than 27 percent of Harvard’s total student population. The university enrolls nearly 6,800 international students and scholars from over 140 countries and regions, many of whom are pursuing graduate programs.
The situation has sparked discussions about the role of international students in U.S. higher education and the impact of potential policy changes on academic diversity and cultural exchange.
