Decisions made by former U.S. President Donald Trump are causing concern not only among Americans but across the globe. Having already tightened immigration policies, Trump has now targeted foreign students, including Indian students who come to study while also being involved in India’s $8.5 billion oil tanker purchases. Trump’s government has imposed a temporary ban on new international student admissions, citing reasons such as promoting anti-Semitism and alleged cooperation with the Chinese Communist Party. Harvard University condemned this move, calling it an act of retaliation. This decision is expected to have a severe impact on Indian students.

In a sensational move, the Trump administration has revoked Harvard University’s permission to enroll foreign students. This will affect Indian students currently studying there, along with other international students. Due to this decision, many foreign students at the prestigious Harvard University will now be forced to transfer to other universities or risk losing their legal status in the U.S. International students admitted to universities receive necessary visa documentation through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Students use certificates issued by universities to apply for their visas.

According to Harvard’s official website, 6,800 international students enrolled this year, making up 27% of the total student population, with most being graduate students. Among them, 788 students are from India. The ban on foreign student admissions will take effect from the 2025-26 academic year. Unless the government reverses the decision or court relief is granted, all foreign admissions for this year will be canceled. Students who have already completed their degrees this semester can graduate, but those in the middle of their studies must transfer to another institution or face losing their legal status in the U.S.