Harvard Faces Dual Crises: International Student Ban and Morgue Scandal

Harvard University is at the center of two major controversies, facing both political and reputational challenges that threaten its global standing and financial stability.

International Student Ban Sparks Legal Battle

The Trump administration’s recent move to revoke Harvard’s authority to enroll international students ignited widespread backlash from academic leaders, lawmakers, and the international community. On May 22, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it was stripping Harvard of its Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, effectively barring the university from admitting new foreign students and requiring current international students—who make up roughly 27% of Harvard’s student body—to transfer or risk losing their legal status in the U.S.

The administration justified the action by accusing Harvard of failing to comply with federal requests for records related to international students and alleging the university had fostered an unsafe campus environment, citing concerns over antisemitism and alleged collaboration with the Chinese Communist Party—claims Harvard vigorously denies.

Harvard responded swiftly, filing a lawsuit in federal court and calling the move a “blatant violation” of the First Amendment and due process rights. The university argued that the ban would cause “irreparable harm” to both the institution and its students, noting that international students are integral to Harvard’s academic mission and financial model. President Alan Garber condemned the action as “unlawful and unwarranted retaliation” for Harvard’s refusal to cede academic independence to political pressure.

On May 23, U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order blocking the administration’s directive, allowing Harvard to continue enrolling international students for now. A further hearing is scheduled to determine whether the restraining order will be extended. The case has intensified debate over the future of U.S. higher education, with experts warning that such policies could drive top talent to competing countries and undermine America’s global scientific leadership.

Morgue Scandal Deepens Reputational Woes

Compounding Harvard’s troubles, its Medical School is under federal investigation after revelations that the morgue manager admitted to stealing and selling human organs on the black market. The scandal has shocked the academic and medical communities, raising questions about oversight and ethical standards at one of the world’s leading research institutions. The incident has further tarnished Harvard’s reputation at a time when it is already under intense scrutiny.

Financial Strain and Political Pressure

The university’s financial challenges have also mounted. The Department of Health and Human Services, under the leadership of RFK Jr., recently canceled $60 million in federal grants to Harvard, citing ongoing investigations and compliance concerns. This funding cut follows earlier freezes and threats to Harvard’s tax-exempt status, as the Trump administration continues its campaign against elite academic institutions.

Outlook

These events have sparked heated debate about academic freedom, the role of international students in American higher education, and the university’s ability to weather political and reputational storms. As Harvard prepares for further legal proceedings and works to restore public trust, its future as a global leader in research and education remains uncertain.