A federal judge in Massachusetts has halted the Trump administration’s attempt to bar Harvard University from enrolling international students. On Tuesday, Judge Allison D. Burroughs granted Harvard’s request for a preliminary injunction, stopping the revocation of the university’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Back on May 22, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced plans to strip Harvard of its SEVP certification, which would have prevented international students from attending the prestigious institution. Harvard swiftly responded by filing a lawsuit on May 23, challenging the administration’s decision.
Judge Burroughs had previously issued a temporary restraining order to maintain the status quo until a hearing could be held. With the new preliminary injunction in place, Harvard can continue to enroll international students while both parties negotiate further actions.
Despite the ruling, the Department of Homeland Security indicated it still intends to pursue administrative procedures to revoke Harvard’s SEVP certification. For now, international students at Harvard can continue their studies without interruption.
Judge Burroughs stated she would keep the temporary restraining order active until it can be replaced with the preliminary injunction, ensuring ongoing protection for international students at Harvard.
