Harvard and the Fight Over International Student Enrollment

There was a lot of news about a dispute between Harvard and the federal government over the school's ability to enroll international students. When a story like that hits the headlines, students everywhere start to wonder what it means for them.

You do not need to follow every twist of a legal fight. What you do need is a clear head about what it teaches the rest of us.

Why a school's certification matters

To enroll international students, a U.S. school has to be approved under the SEVP program. That approval is what lets a school issue the I-20 you need for an F1 visa. When a school's standing is in question, it can affect the students there.

The lesson for students

Big schools with big names can still face big problems. So the safest move is not to chase a brand. The safest move is to pick a school that is stable, properly certified, and a good fit for your goals, and to keep your own status clean.

• Choose a SEVP certified school in good standing.
• Keep your own records and enrollment in order at all times.
• Have a backup plan, including transfer options, just in case.
• Work with people who watch these developments so you are never caught off guard.

Where we come in

We help students pick schools that are solid and a good match, not just famous. And if something ever shakes up your plans, we help you look at transfers and other options so you keep moving forward.

Worried about how news like this affects your plans? Book a free session and we will give you a steady, honest read on your situation.

Note: this story involved an ongoing legal dispute, and the details may have changed since. For the current picture, check official sources or ask us.