WASHINGTON, May 25 (WSH) — U.S. President Donald Trump’s order on May 22 to revoke Harvard University’s right to enroll international students has triggered widespread concern across academic circles. Although a federal judge temporarily blocked the decision on May 23, thousands of foreign students at Harvard remain caught in limbo. The university, in coordination with student groups, is working swiftly to assist affected students with potential transfer options.
Thousands of Students in Limbo as Future Plans Collapse
Harvard currently hosts approximately 7,000 international students—about 27% of its total enrollment. Many of them had spent years preparing for their studies in the United States or received prestigious scholarships. Now, they are grappling with an uncertain academic future.
Michael Gritzbach, a German student pursuing a master’s in public administration at Harvard, described the situation as a “dream turned nightmare.” A British student admitted to Harvard’s Graduate School of Education this fall shared concerns over free speech and personal security, stating, “If I do attend Harvard now, I’ll have to be very aware of what I say.”
Harvard Organizes Emergency Transfer Support as Europe Extends a Hand
Abdullah Shahid Sial, co-president of Harvard’s undergraduate student union and a student from Pakistan, confirmed that the university is actively working with students seeking to transfer—either within the U.S. or abroad.
Reuters reported that the Russell Group, a consortium of 24 top UK universities often dubbed the “British Ivy League,” may become a preferred destination for transferring students. ETH Zurich, alma mater of Albert Einstein, also indicated its openness to accept Harvard students impacted by U.S. policy changes. “This might be a chance to welcome some of the world’s brightest students,” said Corinne Feuz, the university’s spokesperson.
Trinity College Dublin stated that it is too early to assess whether there will be a surge of incoming Harvard students, though it is monitoring developments closely.
Limited Time, Global Impact
With less than three months until the start of the fall semester, accommodating large numbers of transfer students remains a logistical challenge. Still, Harvard reports a notable surge in domestic applications—up 16% at the undergraduate level and 64% for graduate programs.
Analysts warn that the move could reshape global student flows, as European and British students become increasingly hesitant to pursue higher education in the U.S., amid concerns over policy instability and academic freedom.
