Harvard University Loses Visa Sponsorship Amid Row with Government
The move has significant implications for Harvard's international students, including Princess Elisabeth, and the university's lawsuit against the government is expected to be closely watched. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between academic institutions and the federal government, and raises important questions about the role of government in higher education.
Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has been revoked by the federal government, stripping the university of its authority to sponsor F- and J- visas for international students and scholars for the 2025-26 academic year. The decision is seen as retaliation for Harvard's refusal to surrender its academic independence to the federal government. The university has condemned the action, calling it "unlawful and unwarranted," and has filed a lawsuit to challenge the decision.
The government claims that Harvard failed to comply with requests for information from the Department of Homeland Security, but the university disputes this, saying it responded to the requests as required by law. Harvard is committed to supporting its international students and scholars, who are "vital members" of the community, and will provide updates on the situation. The university's international students, including Belgium's future queen, Princess Elisabeth, are at risk of having their US studies disrupted due to the ban on foreign students.
Princess Elisabeth, 23, has completed her first year of a two-year master's program in public policy at Harvard University. The ban, which affects thousands of students, could force her to transfer schools or lose her legal status in the US. The Belgian royal palace is investigating the situation and waiting for further clarification. Harvard has denounced the move as illegal and retaliatory, and the university community is waiting with bated breath to see how the situation unfolds.
The revocation of Harvard University's certification under the SEVP has sent shockwaves through the academic community, with many expressing concern over the implications for international students and scholars. As the situation continues to unfold, Harvard University remains committed to supporting its international students and scholars, and to upholding its academic independence in the face of government pressure.