China condemns the U.S. ban on Harvard's international students, citing harm

The Trump administration has blocked Harvard University from accepting new foreign students, creating uncertainty for thousands of international students already at the school. ABC News reports that this decision affects Harvard's large international student population, which includes 6,703 students from around the world, with 1,203 coming from China alone. The Chinese government strongly criticized the move, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning saying the action would damage America's image and international credibility. She explained that educational cooperation between the US and China benefits both countries and should not be used for political purposes.

Chinese students currently make up the largest group of foreign students at Harvard, and many are now worried about their future. The controversy has become a hot topic on Chinese social media, where people are questioning whether the United States will remain a top choice for international students. State broadcaster CCTV noted that with long legal battles ahead, thousands of students may not be able to wait for a resolution. As reported by ABC News, this situation is forcing international students to consider studying in other countries when policy uncertainty becomes the norm.

CNN explains that this crackdown on Harvard represents a broader attack on higher education institutions that challenge the administration's authority. The Department of Homeland Security justified the ban by accusing Harvard of creating an unsafe environment for Jewish students and promoting what they called racist diversity programs. Secretary Kristi Noem warned that this action should serve as a message to all universities across the country about following the administration's orders. The move is part of Trump's larger battle with elite universities, which he sees as sources of progressive values that work against conservative beliefs. Harvard has refused to give in to pressure that would limit its academic freedom and research activities, leading to multiple legal fights.

Reuters describes how Chinese students at Harvard are now living in fear and uncertainty about their future in America. Many students have canceled flights home and are seeking legal advice on how to stay in the United States legally. A physics PhD student explained that the Chinese community feels more targeted than other groups, with some friends advising him to avoid staying in his current housing in case immigration agents come to arrest him.

According to Reuters, the number of Chinese students in American universities has already dropped significantly from 370,000 in 2019 to about 277,000 in 2024 due to growing tensions between the two countries. Chinese students made up one-fifth of Harvard's foreign student population in 2024, making them particularly affected by this decision. Teachers at Harvard have told students that the school is working hard to respond within 72 hours and negotiate with the government.

Sources:

https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory/china-criticizes-us-ban-harvards-international-students-122104583

https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/23/politics/harvard-trump-meme-coin-dinner-analysis

https://www.reuters.com/world/china/harvard-refugee-chinese-students-hunker-down-us-blocks-foreign-enrollment-2025-05-23/