University of Tokyo Mulls Accepting Harvard's International Students After Trump's Ban

On Monday, May 26, 2025, the University of Tokyo stated that it is considering temporarily accepting international students from Harvard, a decision that came after Trump's move to ban foreign students from studying at the Ivy League university. 

As quoted from Kyodo News, the University of Tokyo previously launched a program in 2022 to temporarily accommodate researchers and students who could not continue their studies due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine by offering free research laboratories and accommodations.

Fate of Foreign Harvard Students

Trump's administration has moved to ban Harvard from enrolling international students. In a post on X on Thursday, May 22, quoted from Aljazeera, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said that the Trump administration held Harvard accountable for its actions. Trump accused Harvard of "fostering" antisemitism and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party.

"Harvard had plenty of opportunity to do the right thing. It refused," she said.

In a letter to the university administration, Noem said the university's Student Exchange Program certification had been revoked. The program is overseen by the U.S. Homeland Security Investigation unit under Noem's leadership.

In addition to stopping the enrollment of foreign students, current students would have to transfer to other universities.

"We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard’s ability to host our international students and scholars, who hail from more than 140 countries and enrich the university—and this nation—immeasurably," Harvard University stated.

Trump pressured Harvard University on Monday, May 26. He threatened to withdraw a $3 billion grant. As quoted from the Financial Times, Trump said he would consider withdrawing funds from Harvard and giving it to trade schools in America. "What a great investment that would be for the USA, and so badly needed!" wrote Trump on the Truth Social platform.

Trump said he's waiting for Harvard to disclose list of international students, which will allow the U.S. government  to determine who should or should not be allowed to study there. 

Sita Planasari also contributed to the writing of this article

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