Worldwide universities offer relief to Harvard students impacted by US visa ban

A recent visa policy decision by the Trump administration has put nearly 6,800 international students at Harvard University at risk of deportation after the US government revoked the university’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), prompting global concern and academic solidarity.

In response, Harvard filed a legal challenge, contending that the revocation violates the First Amendment, due process protections, and administrative procedures.

The university’s lawsuit prompted swift judicial intervention: a federal judge in Boston issued a temporary restraining order preventing the administration from “implementing, instituting, maintaining, or giving effect” to the ban until a hearing can be held.

As uncertainty lingers for international students in the US, educational institutions worldwide have launched measures to provide alternative pathways and stability for those affected by the policy shift.

Tetr College of Business was among the first to respond, unveiling a full-scholarship program for both incoming and currently enrolled Harvard students on F-1 visas. Backed by a $10 million global scholarship fund, the initiative covers full tuition—estimated at $200,000—for those joining the August 2025 undergraduate intake.

Students can choose between two programs: Management and Technology or Science and Artificial Intelligence.

Beyond the US, governments and universities have also moved quickly to offer solutions.

In Hong Kong, the Education Bureau announced a series of proactive measures for international students potentially facing deportation due to the US policy.

Christine Choi, Secretary for Education in the Hong Kong SAR Government, called on all local universities to adopt “facilitation measures” for affected students.

Local media reports stated that the city would ease admissions quotas, expedite application processing, and intensify recruitment efforts aimed at welcoming “talented students” impacted by the US decision.

Several Hong Kong universities followed suit with specific commitments. Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) reaffirmed its commitment to internationalization, highlighting its track record of “recruiting outstanding non-local students.”

The university pledged support to any displaced student opting to enroll, promising assistance “based on actual circumstances.”

City University of Hong Kong (CityU) announced plans to accommodate affected students, including those pursuing doctoral studies.

The institution said it would facilitate student transfers and coordinate with original PhD supervisors abroad to arrange co-supervision where possible.

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) emphasized its intention to attract top global talent, stating its commitment to providing “comprehensive support.”

CUHK is also evaluating increased research funding to help scholars now exploring academic opportunities outside the US.

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) introduced a streamlined transfer process and full program admission for students from Harvard and other elite US universities.

Promising to “facilitate the swift transition,” PolyU committed to full acceptance, personalized support, and dedicated contact points throughout the process.

Similarly, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) issued an open invitation to all affected students, regardless of whether they were already enrolled or held upcoming offers.

HKUST pledged unconditional admission, streamlined entry procedures, credit transfer support, visa assistance, and housing resources.

As legal battles continue in the US, these international initiatives are emerging as crucial lifelines for students caught in the crossfire of shifting immigration policies.