Harvard aspirations in the shadow of Trump: Indian students are divided on whether to attend or remain

The image was straightforward: a woman standing beneath a red Harvard flag with Massachusetts Hall's red brick rising in the background. It was more than just a photo to the 52-year-old principal of a school in Delhi; it was evidence that she had come to start a master's degree in education at Harvard University.Harvard's accreditation to accept international students was revoked by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in May. In addition to refusing to provide surveillance footage and disciplinary records of international students linked to protests, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem accused the university of creating a “hostile” school environment for Jewish students. Harvard was given 72 hours to comply after the action shut it out of SEVIS, the federal database that controls visas. The ruling put over 7,000 international students on campus—nearly 800 of whom were Indian—in immediate legal danger. For those who were admitted for Fall 2025, it was like a dream that vanished in an instant.Calling the revocation "a series of government actions to retaliate against Harvard for our refusal to surrender our academic independence," Harvard retaliated in court. The institution had considerable leeway because to a temporary restraining order. However, there was still uncertainty for new overseas students.

The principal of Delhi considered her choices. Yes, she said, "I was overwhelmed, but I knew reversals had happened before." "I might go next year if I didn't go this year. However, it isn't the case for many people younger than me. There would be a significant opportunity loss. After her social media profiles were examined, she received her visa on July 29. After packing, she took a plane to Boston. She is currently attending leadership and curriculum design classes.Like her, other others made the decision to jump in. A 26-year-old Gujarati who received a prestigious grant to attend Harvard's Kennedy School recalls the predicament clearly. It was almost unreal and dramatic. However, I persuaded myself that I would always regret not taking this chance. He acknowledges that the uneasiness still exists, but he is currently starting his public policy studies. "That crisis reverberates in every discussion with classmates. As international students, we must exercise caution, keep quiet, and focus on our goals.