may 23,2025
In a significant legal decision, a federal judge has halted the Trump administration’s controversial attempt to block Harvard University and other institutions from enrolling international students taking online-only classes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The policy, announced by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in July, would have required international students to leave the country or transfer to a school with in-person instruction if their courses were entirely online. The rule triggered widespread backlash from universities, educators, and global communities alike.
Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) quickly filed a lawsuit challenging the directive. They argued that the policy was arbitrary and capricious, especially in light of public health concerns and the rapidly evolving nature of the pandemic.
The federal judge presiding over the case issued a preliminary injunction, effectively blocking the enforcement of the policy. This means that international students can continue their studies in the U.S., even if their courses are delivered entirely online.
This ruling was widely seen as a victory for academic freedom and international education. It underscored the role of the judiciary in checking executive actions that could have far-reaching implications for higher education and immigration.
Universities across the U.S. welcomed the decision, with many reaffirming their commitment to supporting international students. Harvard President Lawrence Bacow stated, “We are grateful that the rule was rescinded and that international students will continue to have the opportunity to study at American institutions.”
The case is also a reminder of the important contributions that international students make to U.S. campuses — not only economically but culturally and intellectually as well.
As global education continues to evolve, this ruling reinforces the idea that inclusivity and adaptability remain essential values in higher education.