Harvard’s SEVP Ban Triggers Panic Among Indian Students Planning US Education in Fall 2025

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has revoked Harvard University’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), effectively banning it from enrolling international students for the academic year 2025–26. This decision, framed as a warning to other institutions, has sparked fear and uncertainty among thousands of international students, especially from India, who are waiting to obtain F-1 visas for higher education in the US.

Background and Context

The SEVP is a program managed by DHS to monitor international students in the US via the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) database. Harvard has over 7,000 international students, including nearly 800 Indians. The action follows pro-Palestine protests across Ivy League campuses, with the Trump administration alleging a “hostile environment” for Jewish students and non-cooperation from Harvard in investigations.

Key Developments

• Harvard lost its SEVP certification, disabling it from issuing F-1 and J-1 visa documents.
• International students may now be out of legal status, and those on OPT or STEM OPT work permits are also affected.
• DHS has given Harvard 72 hours to comply with federal demands for surveillance footage and protestor data.

Harvard’s Legal Response

• Harvard filed for a temporary restraining order (TRO) and released a statement asserting the move is retaliation for preserving academic independence.
• The university emphasized: “Without its international students, Harvard is not Harvard.”

Impact on Indian Students

• Many admitted Indian students, including Kennedy Fellows and public policy aspirants, now face the uncertainty of deferrals, financial losses, or canceled dreams.
• Some have paid non-refundable deposits or declined other offers in favor of Harvard.
• Students currently enrolled at Harvard fear losing their visa status or work authorization.

Legal & Immigration Implications

Students may attempt,

• Reinstatement through USCIS, which can be time-consuming.
• Exit and re-entry using a new I-20 (with risks to scholarships and admission).
• Immigration attorneys advise waiting for TRO outcome before proceeding with visa appointments.

University & Faculty Support

• Faculty across Harvard expressed solidarity, stating students are being used as political pawns.
• Online forums and email groups have become active channels for reassurance.