The John Harvard Statue at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is adorned with an American flag on April 17, 2025. Image credit: Sophie Park—Getty Images
Harvard University is facing increased federal pressure as the Trump Administration takes a more aggressive stance. In a recent announcement, the administration declared that Harvard would be blocked from receiving any new federal research grants, in a move to push its agenda of reforming higher education and targeting institutions that resist.
Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated in a letter to the university that Harvard should no longer seek federal grants as none would be provided. This decision means Harvard will no longer be publicly funded and will instead operate as a privately-funded institution, utilizing its substantial endowment and support from wealthy alumni.
The administration’s demands include the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, a revamp of leadership and hiring practices, and adherence to new rules on student discipline and faculty oversight. Harvard has pushed back against these directives and filed a lawsuit in response.
In a letter to federal officials, Harvard’s attorneys emphasized the university’s commitment to maintaining independence and constitutional rights, asserting that neither Harvard nor any private university should be subject to government control.
While Harvard is standing firm, other institutions have complied with similar pressures. Columbia University, for example, faced threats of grant cancellations and eventually complied with the administration’s demands.
The conflict between Harvard and the Trump Administration has escalated over time, with a timeline of key events outlining the rising tensions. In March, federal agencies launched a review of Harvard’s contracts and grants to ensure compliance with civil rights responsibilities. Subsequent letters outlined provisions Harvard needed to adhere to, including changes to leadership structures, merit-based hiring practices, and the discontinuation of DEI programs.
The clash between Harvard and the administration reflects broader challenges within higher education and the ongoing debate over federal involvement in academic institutions.
On April 14th, Harvard responded to the Administration’s demands by rejecting them, stating that they exceed legal boundaries. The university expressed willingness to discuss improvements for the community but emphasized that it cannot agree to demands beyond lawful authority.
Following this, on April 16th, the Department of Homeland Security threatened to revoke Harvard’s ability to enroll international students. Secretary Kristi Noem announced the cancellation of two grants totaling over $2.7 million and warned of potential consequences for the university, where international students made up a significant portion of the student body.
Subsequently, on April 21st, Harvard filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration, citing First Amendment violations and improper procedures in cutting grant funding. The university argued that the grant cancellation jeopardizes its independence and critical research efforts.
In a show of solidarity against government interference, on April 22nd, Harvard joined other colleges in a joint letter condemning what they described as unprecedented overreach. The letter, signed by Harvard President Alan Garber and over 600 other higher education leaders, stressed the autonomy of institutions in controlling curriculum, students, and staff.
On May 2nd, President Trump announced plans to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status, a decision condemned by the university as lacking legal basis. In response, a spokesperson for Harvard refuted the claims made by the President.
Finally, on May 7th, Harvard was informed by Sec. McMahon that it would no longer be eligible for new federal research grants due to alleged noncompliance with federal law. For further inquiries, contact us at letters@time.com.
