Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, following his decision to block the university from admitting foreign students.

In its complaint submitted to the U.S. Federal Court in Boston, Harvard described the move as a "blatant violation" of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and other federal laws.

Impact on Foreign Students

Harvard noted that Trump's decision had an "immediate and severe impact" on the university and more than 7,000 visa holders.

On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that the Trump administration had effectively barred Harvard from enrolling foreign students, forcing current students to transfer to other institutions or risk losing their legal status.

Government Justification & Accusations Against Harvard

In a statement, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem issued an order to terminate Harvard’s student and visitor exchange program accreditation.

Noem accused Harvard of "fueling violence, promoting antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party."

DHS claimed that this action was taken after Harvard refused to provide information Noem had requested regarding certain foreign students holding visas.

Noem further stated, "It is a privilege, not a right, for universities to admit foreign students and benefit from their higher tuition payments to boost their multi-billion-dollar endowments."

Harvard’s Response

Harvard denounced the government's decision, stating:

"This retaliatory action is illegal. It poses significant harm to the Harvard community and our country while undermining the university’s academic and research mission."

The university reported that approximately 6,800 foreign students were enrolled for the 2024-2025 academic year, accounting for 27% of its total student body, according to Harvard’s statistics.

Trump’s Broader Efforts on Education Policy

Trump, a Republican, has pushed for reforms in private colleges and universities across the U.S., arguing that they "promote anti-American ideology, Marxism, and radical leftist views."

He specifically criticized Harvard for employing prominent Democratic figures in faculty and leadership positions.