A federal judge in Massachusetts issued a preliminary injunction on Friday, blocking the Trump administration’s attempt to revoke Harvard University’s certification to enroll international students.
U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs’ order ensures that Harvard can continue hosting its approximately 7,000 international students — about a quarter of its total enrollment — while the legal battle unfolds.
The ruling follows a temporary restraining order issued earlier this month, marking another setback for the administration’s efforts to limit Harvard’s global academic reach.
Burroughs directed the government to restore “every visa holder and applicant to the position that individual would have been” before the revocation notice, ensuring no student is denied entry due to the policy.
The ongoing dispute has created significant uncertainty for Harvard’s international students.
The Trump administration’s actions, including a May 22 revocation of Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, have sparked fear among students.
The university described an environment of “profound fear, concern, and confusion” in a court filing, with many students inquiring about transferring.
One prospective graduate student, identified only as Huang, expressed frustration on social media, stating, “Your personal effort and capability means nothing in this era. Why does it have to be so hard to go to school?”
Despite the uncertainty, most current and prospective students remain hopeful about attending Harvard, though visa delays continue to complicate plans for some.
The administration’s actions stem from a broader conflict with Harvard, which intensified after the university rejected demands to overhaul policies on admissions, hiring, and campus protests.
The Trump administration has cut over $2.6 billion in research grants and terminated $100 million in federal contracts, accusing Harvard of fostering an unsafe environment and promoting problematic ideologies.
Harvard has countered, calling the measures “unlawful and unwarranted” and accusing the administration of retaliating against its refusal to comply with federal demands.
President Trump suggested on Truth Social that a resolution might be near, stating, “They have acted extremely appropriately during these negotiations, and appear to be committed to doing what is right.”
However, with the legal fight ongoing, Harvard continues to defend its autonomy and its role as a global academic hub.