Harvard Wins Court Battle Over Funding, Faces International Student Ban, and Unveils Major Tuition Aid Initiative

Good morning, Harvard community. Today is Monday, September 15, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus. In a significant legal victory, a federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to reverse its decision to cut over $2.6 billion in research funding to Harvard University. The court found that the administration's actions violated Harvard's First Amendment rights and were unlawfully retaliatory. While the administration plans to appeal, this ruling marks a crucial step toward reinstating essential research grants. The Department of Homeland Security has revoked Harvard's certification in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, effectively barring the university from enrolling international students for the upcoming academic year. This decision impacts nearly 6,800 international students currently at Harvard. The university is actively challenging this action, emphasizing the invaluable contributions of its international community. In a move to enhance accessibility, Harvard has announced that starting in the 2025-26 academic year, undergraduate students from families earning less than $200,000 annually will receive free tuition. Additionally, families earning under $100,000 will have health insurance, housing, and other expenses covered. This initiative aims to support middle-income families and promote diversity within the student body. Looking ahead, the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study will celebrate its 25th anniversary on September 26 and 27. The event will feature leading scholars, scientists, artists, and writers, reflecting on Radcliffe's legacy and future. Additionally, the Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies invites the community to its Open House on Wednesday, September 10, from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. This event offers an opportunity to learn about upcoming programs and connect with fellow scholars. That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Harvard.