The proclamation states that the entry of new Harvard freshmen holding F, M, or J visas as non-immigrants is suspended, and it requires the Secretary of State to consider revoking the visas of enrolled students who meet the criteria.
This measure does not affect foreign nationals studying at other US universities through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), unless their actions “harm national interests.” Trump stated that Harvard University’s actions make it unsuitable as a destination for foreign students and researchers, and he criticized the institution for long tolerating behavior that endangers US interests.
The proclamation cites warnings from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that foreign adversaries are exploiting higher education to steal information, research and development outcomes, and disseminate disinformation. Additionally, Harvard’s crime rate has surged in recent years, yet the university has failed to effectively penalize on-campus misconduct.