In a significant development for international education, a federal court has granted a preliminary injunction allowing Harvard University to continue enrolling foreign students and scholars under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
The ruling blocks the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from revoking Harvard’s SEVP certification—at least until the court case concludes.
This ruling offers temporary relief to Harvard, though it may not provide full clarity to its student community just yet.
The decision by United States District Judge Allison D. Burroughs prevents the government from canceling Harvard’s SEVP status until she rules on the University’s lawsuit. Meanwhile, current and newly admitted students are advised to continue applying for or renewing their visas through regular procedures.
Harvard stated, “That proclamation is blocked by an emergency order, and we expect the judge to issue a more enduring decision in the coming days.”
Judge Burroughs also instructed federal agencies to issue formal guidance within 72 hours, ensuring that consular and customs agents disregard the SEVP revocation.
While the court has intervened temporarily, the DHS’s internal review of Harvard’s F-1 international student program is still underway. The investigation was initiated in late May with a “Notice of Intent to Withdraw” Harvard’s SEVP certification.
According to Harvard’s legal counsel, Ian H. Gershengorn, DHS submitted a formal withdrawal notice on May 28 at 11:50 p.m., triggering a 30-day window for Harvard to respond and demonstrate legal compliance.
Judge Burroughs has not objected to a “categorical restriction” that could limit Harvard's ability to host F and J visa holders. The presidential proclamation issued on June 4, which seeks to ban entry for new international students, is currently blocked by a temporary restraining order that remains in effect until June 23.
Amid the legal battle, President Donald Trump posted a statement on Truth Social on Friday, indicating that settlement talks are underway between Harvard and the White House.
“Many people have been asking what is going on with Harvard University and their large improprieties that we have been addressing, looking for a solution. We have been working closely with Harvard, and a deal may be announced over the next week or so. They have acted extremely appropriately during these negotiations and appear to be committed to doing what is right. If a Settlement is made on the basis that is currently being discussed, it will be ‘mindbogglingly’ HISTORIC, and very good for our Country. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
The federal court’s preliminary injunction marks a temporary yet crucial victory for Harvard University, allowing it to continue enrolling international students under the SEVP framework. While this decision offers short-term relief to students and scholars, uncertainties remain due to the ongoing DHS administrative review and the unresolved challenge to the June 4 presidential proclamation.
Harvard’s legal team now has a 30-day window to respond to the withdrawal notice, aiming to secure long-term compliance and stability. Meanwhile, the situation has taken a political turn with President Donald Trump suggesting that Harvard and the White House are negotiating a settlement.
His statement, referring to a potential deal as “mindbogglingly historic,” raises hopes of a broader resolution that may shape the future of international education in the U.S. The next few days will be crucial, not only for Harvard but for universities across America that rely on global academic talent and student diversity.