Cover image via Frank Franklin II/Reuters & Brian Snyder/ReutersLast month, US President Donald Trump revoked Harvard University's ability to enrol international students, sending shockwaves through the global education community, including Malaysians studying there
On 22 May, the US Department of Homeland Security stripped the Ivy League school of its Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification. Without this, the university couldn't accept new international students, and those already enrolled risked losing their F-1 student visa status.
The decision was part of a broader immigration crackdown under the current US administration, and it put thousands of international students, including Malaysians currently there, in limbo.
Image via Brian Snyder/Reuters
Following the visa issue, the Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) yesterday, 8 June, released a statement addressing the situation
So, how many Malaysian students are affected?
According to ministry, there are currently 54 Malaysian students at Harvard:
- 16 on sponsorships
- 38 self-funded
Thankfully, none have had their visas revoked, and are safe — for now.
The ministry that while no Malaysian students have faced SEVIS (student visa system) issues so far, the students are advised to keep their immigration and OPT (Optional Practical Training) records updated.
However, if a Malaysian student is planning to start at Harvard in September 2025, the ministry recommends getting in touch with their sponsor and the university directly before making travel or enrolment plans, just in case the legal situation shifts again amid Trump's erratic behaviour.
The ministry's statement comes after Harvard challenged the US government's move in court, and won a temporary victory
A federal judge upheld a Temporary Restraining Order filed by Harvard, allowing all international students — including Malaysians — to remain in the country without any visa disruptions for now.
Meanwhile, the ministry is keeping close tabs on the situation via its Education Malaysia office in Washington, DC, and is actively in touch with both US education authorities and student sponsors.
Additionally, the ministry has urged all parties to remain calm, act based on verified information, and to prioritise students' welfare when dealing with the issue.
Image via Brian Snyder/Reuters
In the 2024-2025 academic year, Harvard University had 6,793 international students, representing 27.2% of its total enrolment
This means that nearly 28% of the university's student body comes from outside the US.
In 2022, Malaysians were among those represented, alongside peers from China, India, and Singapore.
Image via Reuters
