Trump Administration Targets Harvard Over International Students, Sparks Reaction from China

The Trump administration's decision to revoke Harvard University's ability to register international students has incited a strong reaction from the Chinese government, which has a substantial number of nationals studying in the U.S.

During a press briefing on the 23rd, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning criticized the U.S. move, asserting, “Such actions tarnish the United States’ image and international credibility.” Mao affirmed that China would “firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars abroad.”

Mao also emphasized that Sino-U.S. educational cooperation is mutually beneficial, reiterating China’s longstanding opposition to politicizing educational exchanges.

Hong Kong Universities Offer Support to Harvard Students

Although China’s Foreign Ministry did not detail specific steps to protect its students, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) announced its willingness to accept displaced Harvard students unconditionally.

In a public notice posted on its website, HKUST invited current international undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at Harvard, as well as those admitted to Harvard degree programs, to transfer. The university pledged simplified transfer procedures, academic support, housing, and visa assistance. A dedicated team has been established to streamline credit transfers and provide logistical aid.

Similarly, the City University of Hong Kong (CityU) introduced comparable measures, although it did not directly mention Harvard, according to the Associated Press.

Harvard’s Foreign Student Body and Trump Administration Action

According to data from Reuters, Harvard University hosted 6,751 international students from 146 countries during the previous fall semester, accounting for 27% of the total student body. Students from China represent the largest contingent, comprising 20% of all international enrollees.

The controversy arises from an unprecedented policy change announced by the Trump administration on October 22, targeting Harvard for its alleged failure to adopt anti-antisemitism education policies and its perceived cooperative activities with the Chinese Communist Party. Under the directive, Harvard has been stripped of its ability to register international students, sparking widespread backlash and concern over the future of educational cooperation between the nations.