President Donald Trump’s administration has revoked Harvard University’s certification to enroll international students, including Nigerians, citing concerns over campus safety and alleged foreign influence. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the decision on May 22, 2025, stating that Harvard had failed to comply with federal requests for information on foreign students and had fostered an environment of antisemitism and anti-American sentiment.
Harvard University, which hosts approximately 6,800 international students—over 25% of its student body—has strongly condemned the move. University President Alan Garber described the action as “illegal and unjustified,” emphasizing the vital contributions of international students to the institution’s academic and cultural life.
In response to the DHS directive, Harvard filed a lawsuit challenging the revocation, arguing that it violates constitutional rights and due process. On May 23, U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order, halting the administration’s action and allowing Harvard to continue enrolling international students while legal proceedings are underway.
The Trump administration’s decision is part of a broader campaign against elite universities, with previous actions including the freezing of $2.2 billion in federal funding to Harvard and threats to revoke its tax-exempt status.
The situation has caused significant concern among international students, many of whom face uncertainty regarding their legal status and academic futures in the United States. Harvard has pledged to support its international community and continue fighting the administration’s policies through legal channels.
