Harvard University Secures Extended Court Order Protecting International Students

Harvard University announced that U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs has extended a temporary restraining order on Tuesday, blocking the Trump administration’s attempt to bar international students from entering the United States to study at the university. The order, extended until June 23, 2025, ensures that Harvard can continue to welcome its global student body while the court deliberates on a longer-term injunction.

The Trump administration’s proclamation, signed on June 4, 2025, sought to prohibit foreign nationals from enrolling at Harvard, citing national security concerns and alleging the university’s failure to address campus safety issues. Harvard swiftly challenged the order, arguing it constitutes unconstitutional retaliation and violates the university’s First Amendment and due process rights. The university also emphasized the irreparable harm the ban would inflict, noting that international students, who comprised 27% of its enrollment in the 2024-2025 academic year, are integral to its academic mission and global reputation.

“This ruling reaffirms Harvard’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community,” said Harvard President Alan Garber. “Our international students are vital to the vibrant exchange of ideas that defines Harvard. We will continue to fight for their right to study here and for the principles of fairness and justice that underpin our institution.”

Judge Burroughs, an appointee of President Barack Obama, stated that the administration faces an “uphill battle” in justifying the ban, which she described as likely to cause significant harm to Harvard’s standing as a global research hub. The extension follows a Monday hearing in Boston, where Harvard’s legal team, led by attorney Ian Gershengorn, argued that the administration’s actions represent a retaliatory campaign against the university. The court is expected to issue a written opinion by June 23, potentially leading to a preliminary injunction to further protect Harvard’s international student program.

Harvard’s lawsuit, initially filed in May and amended on June 4, details a series of punitive measures by the administration, including the freezing of over $2.2 billion in federal grants and demands for ideological audits of students and faculty. The university contends these actions are part of a broader effort to “weaponize immigration laws” against institutions that resist political pressure.

The Harvard community, including students, faculty, and alumni, has rallied in support of the university’s legal efforts. Yonas Nuguse, a 21-year-old incoming student from Ethiopia, expressed relief at the ruling: “Harvard is a place where I dreamed of building my future. This decision gives me hope that I can pursue my education without fear.”