Dear Harvard College Students,

By now, many of you will have seen President Garber’s messages outlining the steps the University has taken in response to the Department of Homeland Security’s recent decision to revoke our ability to sponsor international students and scholars - and the court’s order blocking this action. I am grateful for the University’s principled leadership and the speed and clarity of the response.

To our international students: you are essential to our College. You bring the world into our classrooms. We will continue to advocate fiercely for your right to be here.

In moments like this, information moves faster than understanding. Group chats, posts, and rumors proliferate. We are doing everything we can to obtain accurate answers and to share them as clearly and quickly as possible. The Harvard International Office (HIO) remains your most reliable guide. They are updating their website frequently. They sent a message this afternoon to international students and I encourage you to check hio.harvard.edu for the most accurate information relevant to the Harvard community.

If you are an international student with questions or concerns, contact the HIO directly. They are available 24/7 for emergencies and will respond as quickly as possible. Please be patient while they work through a backlog of phone calls.

For all other members of the College, I request that you direct inquiries to our College staff so that the HIO can focus on supporting those with the most urgent needs.

As someone who has walked beside many of you as dean, professor, and immigrant, I want you to know that uncertainty does not erase dignity. Especially in this moment, we are called to show up for one another with steadiness, courage, and humanity.

As we learn more, we will continue to share updates. Until then, know this: you are not alone.

Semper veritas,

Rakesh Khurana
Danoff Dean of Harvard College

Dear Members of the Harvard Community,

As I wrote earlier this morning, we filed a complaint and a motion for a temporary restraining order today to stop the federal government from revoking Harvard’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and stripping the University of its authority to sponsor F and J visas for international students and scholars for the 2025-26 academic year.

The court has granted Harvard’s motion, allowing the University to continue enrolling international students and scholars as the case proceeds. A hearing has been set for next Thursday, May 29, to determine whether the temporary order should be extended.

This is a critical step to protect the rights and opportunities of our international students and scholars, who are vital to the University’s mission and community. Many among us are likely to have additional concerns and questions. Important updates and guidance will continue to be provided by the Harvard International Office as they become available.

Sincerely,
Alan M. Garber