- Judge Allison Burroughs extended her injunction against the Trump administration’s efforts to block Harvard’s certification for enrolling international students.
- The administration gave Harvard 30 days to comply with SEVP oversight, but the judge chose to maintain the status quo.
- Judge Burroughs told lawyers from both sides to agree on language that preserves the student visa program without disruption.
- DHS Secretary Kristi Noem criticized Harvard, alleging the university disregards American taxpayers and endangers students.
- Harvard’s international student population represents a significant portion of its academic community.
In a significant ruling with far-reaching implications for immigration and higher education policy, U.S. District Court Judge Allison Burroughs has extended her order blocking the Trump administration from revoking Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students.
“I want to maintain the status quo,” Burroughs stated from the bench, according to CNN. She emphasized the need for stability in student visa policy, particularly for institutions with large global populations like Harvard.
The judge instructed attorneys for both Harvard and the Trump administration to cooperate on language that ensures continuity of the international student program. Although the Department of Homeland Security had given Harvard 30 days to comply before implementing changes, Burroughs’ ruling delays that action indefinitely.
Earlier, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem posted a strong rebuke of Harvard’s actions on X, accusing the university of failing to cooperate with federal oversight:
“Harvard’s refusal to comply with SEVP oversight was the latest evidence that it disdains the American people and takes for granted U.S. taxpayer benefits. […] We continue to reject Harvard’s repeated pattern of endangering its students and spreading American hate—it must change its ways in order to participate in American programs.”
The case has stirred debate around immigration enforcement in elite educational institutions. Harvard, which has long maintained a global student body—with international students making up approximately 27% of enrollment—argues the administration’s actions would create lasting harm to its mission and academic standing.
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While the legal battle continues, Judge Burroughs’ ruling ensures that no immediate changes can be made to Harvard’s SEVP certification status. Her decision represents a notable pushback against federal pressure and signals judicial concern over abrupt disruptions to U.S. higher education policy.
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