China has strongly condemned the Trump administration’s decision to prevent Harvard University from admitting international students, claiming that the move will damage America’s global reputation and disrupt the educational goals of thousands of students.
On May 22, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security revoked Harvard’s permission to enroll foreign students, citing unproven allegations that the university was collaborating with the Chinese Communist Party and failing to address antisemitism on campus. The administration demanded Harvard comply with federal requests within 72 hours or face ongoing suspension from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
In response, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that the U.S. actions would “only harm its image and international credibility,” stressing that educational cooperation between China and the U.S. is mutually beneficial and should not be politicized.
Harvard, which had 6,703 international students enrolled in 2024—including 1,203 from China and 788 from India—has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, labeling the move unconstitutional and retaliatory. A federal judge has since issued a temporary restraining order to halt the enforcement of the ban.
The ban has caused considerable concern among international students, especially those from China, who now face possible deportation or the need to transfer to other universities. Many students are urgently seeking legal advice, delaying travel plans, and reconsidering their educational futures.
In support, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology announced it would accept current and admitted Harvard international students into its programs, providing simplified admission processes and academic assistance to ensure a smooth transition.
This incident highlights the rising tensions between the U.S. and China, particularly in academic exchange and international education. Experts warn that such measures could have lasting impacts on the U.S.’s reputation for academic freedom and its ability to attract global talent.
