The U.S. State Department announced this Tuesday the opening of an official investigation into Harvard University for its management of the exchange visa program (J type).
The measure, reported by the entity's secretary, Marco Rubio, marks a new chapter in the increasing tension between the Republican government and elite academic institutions.
"Visa sponsorship is a privilege, not a right. Those who act against the interests of our nation will lose that privilege," Rubio stated on his official X account (@SecRubio), without providing specific details about the alleged violations by Harvard.
The decision comes days after President Donald Trump publicly defended the suspension of student visa interviews and accused universities like Harvard of being “a disaster” that “disrespects the United States.”
In this context, Rubio appears to align himself with the presidential discourse, focused on a narrative of national security, ideological surveillance, and rejection of the educational elites, particularly following pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses.
The announcement immediately generated mixed reactions on social media. Some users, such as lawyer @Dalilah2025, criticized the measure, seeing it as persecutory: “Why is it never enough? These people are here legally. At what point does this stop being about rules and become about control or bias?” she questioned.
Others, like journalists @KristiTalmadge and @bbuckley88, praised the initiative, accusing Harvard of "importing terrorists" and acting as "centers of communist and Islamist indoctrination."
For her part, the activist and human rights defender Marlene Robertson (@marlene4719) directed a straight accusation at Rubio himself: “Why don’t you investigate the pedophile you are protecting? Are you also protecting yourself?”
The announcement of the investigation comes in an atmosphere of growing institutional pressure on American universities. On May 28, Trump stated at the White House that universities should drastically reduce their proportion of international students, proposing a cap of 15% at institutions like Harvard.
The suspension of interviews for F, M, and J visas was ordered in a diplomatic cable signed by Rubio himself, which directly affects international students and exchange scholars.
The measure is part of a broader review that includes the analysis of social networks as an entry filter.
Harvard, which is already facing legal battles over alleged political retaliation following the suspension of its ability to enroll foreign students, could now lose its status as a visa sponsor, a measure that would have serious consequences for its operations and international reputation.
The university has not issued official comments following Rubio's announcement, although it has previously denounced that the government's actions constitute an attempt to stifle academic freedom and student activism.
Experts in education and civil rights warn that this policy could have devastating effects.
The closure of legal entry pathways for foreign students not only harms the reputation of the U.S. as an academic destination but also fosters a climate of fear and self-censorship on university campuses.
As the republican government intensifies its surveillance over universities and their international students, many fear that this new episode marks a turning point: a more closed, politicized educational system that is less appealing to global talent.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Investigation into Harvard's Exchange Visa Program and Its Implications
Why is the Harvard exchange visa program being investigated?
The Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, announced that the Department of State has launched an official investigation against Harvard University regarding its management of the J-1 exchange visa program. The investigation focuses on the possible mismanagement of the visas, which could jeopardize the interests of the United States. Rubio emphasized that visa sponsorship is a "privilege, not a right."
How does the suspension of student visa interviews affect U.S. universities?
The suspension of interviews for student visas, ordered by the State Department, threatens to significantly reduce the flow of foreign students, which could negatively impact the finances and international prestige of U.S. universities. Institutions like Harvard rely heavily on international enrollment both academically and financially.
What consequences could Harvard face if it loses its status as a visa sponsor?
If Harvard loses its status as a visa sponsor, it could face serious consequences for its operations and international prestige. This would impact its ability to attract international students, which is essential for both its academic diversity and its funding.
What is the stance of the United States government on student visas?
The United States government, under the Trump administration, has taken a strict stance regarding student visas, viewing them as a privilege rather than a right. It has been emphasized that visas are reserved for those who contribute positively to the country, and it has been pointed out that individuals who support activities deemed dangerous or contrary to U.S. interests could have their visas revoked.
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