Federal Court Blocks Trump Administration’s Ban on Foreign Students at Harvard University

Federal Court Blocks Trump Administration’s Ban on Foreign Students at Harvard University
[Sean Herbert | Washington | May 29, 2025]

A federal judge in Massachusetts announced Thursday that she plans to issue a preliminary injunction to prevent the Trump administration’s ban on foreign student enrollment at Harvard University from taking effect.

U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs said during a hearing on Thursday that she would issue the preliminary injunction as requested by Harvard, and also extended a previously issued temporary restraining order to prevent the administration from enforcing its threat.

Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), seeking to block the administration’s move to temporarily limit the enrollment and presence of international students. DHS has stated that current foreign students at Harvard must transfer elsewhere or risk losing their lawful immigration status in the United States.

Lawyers representing Harvard are presenting their arguments in federal court in Massachusetts, where the Trump administration has reportedly targeted the university’s federal funding and its international student population.

According to a DHS notice issued Thursday, Harvard University has been given 30 days to contest the administration’s action to halt foreign student enrollment.

The notice states that within those 30 days, the university must present evidence against the administration’s decision in order to continue admitting foreign students under the Student Exchange and Visitor Program.

Coincidentally, Harvard University’s commencement ceremony was also held on the same day. When University President Alan Garber took the stage, he was welcomed with a standing ovation and enthusiastic applause.

Addressing the graduates, he said:
“You are the living hope of this institution. You have proven that our mission changes not only individuals, but also the course of the communities you will join, serve, and lead. I hope you carry the best of Harvard into the world that awaits you.”