In a landmark move demonstrating unwavering commitment to campus safety and the rule of law, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has taken decisive action against Harvard University. According to Fox News, under her leadership, DHS announced the elimination of Harvard’s student visa program following the university’s alleged refusal to cooperate with federal requests concerning pro-terrorist activities on campus.
Secretary Noem’s stance is clear: “This administration is holding Harvard accountable for fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus.”
“It is a privilege, not a right, for universities to enroll foreign students and benefit from their higher tuition payments to help pad their multibillion-dollar endowments,” Noem continued. “Harvard had plenty of opportunity to do the right thing. It refused. They have lost their Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification as a result of their failure to adhere to the law. Let this serve as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country.”
Noem’s leadership sends a powerful message that the safety of students and the integrity of American academic institutions cannot be compromised. By holding Harvard accountable for what DHS described as fostering violence, antisemitism, and questionable connections with foreign entities, Noem is setting a new standard for university compliance with federal law.
Harvard now faces the consequence of losing its ability to enroll foreign students for the 2025-2026 academic year. Existing international students will need to transfer or risk losing their legal status in the U.S. This action follows repeated requests from DHS for behavioral records and protest footage involving student visa holders—requests Harvard failed to adequately fulfill.
Noem’s commitment to transparency and the rule of law is further underscored by her offer to Harvard: a 72-hour window to comply and potentially regain its visa program for the next school year.
Despite Harvard’s claims that the government’s actions are “unlawful,” Noem’s focus remains on the safety and values of American higher education. Her actions are part of a broader effort to ensure that universities are not safe havens for those who threaten the rights and safety of others.
“Consequences must follow to send a clear signal to Harvard and all universities that want to enjoy the privilege of enrolling foreign students, that the Trump administration will enforce the law and root out the evils of antisemitism in society and campuses,” Noem said.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Noem’s sentiments, affirming that visas are a privilege, not a right, and promising continued enforcement to protect the integrity of U.S. educational institutions.
