Guidance for International Students and Scholars at Harvard University Following SEVP Certification Termination

Updated: 05/23/2025

In an unprecedented development, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially terminated Harvard University’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This decision affects the immigration status of thousands of international students and scholars currently enrolled under F-1, J-1, and related visa categories. The situation is serious and requires prompt and informed action.

This guide is designed to help international students and scholars at Harvard University understand the implications of this decision and explore available solutions.

Who Is Affected?

The termination of SEVP certification affects all nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors under the following statuses:

• F-1 students (including those on OPT, STEM OPT, and CPT)

• J-1 exchange visitors (students, researchers, professors, etc.)

• F-2 and J-2 dependents

Once SEVP certification is terminated, Harvard can no longer issue or maintain valid Forms I-20 or DS-2019, which are required for maintaining legal status in the U.S.

Immediate Implications

1. Loss of SEVIS Record Validity: Students’ SEVIS records will likely be terminated. This can lead to a loss of lawful F-1 or J-1 status unless corrective action is taken immediately.

2. OPT and STEM OPT Impact: F-1 students currently on OPT or STEM OPT linked to Harvard are also impacted. DHS may consider these employment authorizations invalid if the sponsoring school loses certification.

3. Ineligibility for Transfers or Extensions: Without active SEVIS records, students cannot transfer to another SEVP-certified school or apply for program extensions, reinstatement, or employment benefits.

4. J-1 Program Participants:J-1 scholars must cease program activities and may be required to depart the U.S. unless transferred to a new sponsor.

   
   

Status Update on Harvard's Lawsuit Against DHS Regarding SEVP Termination

• On 05/23/2025, Harvard filed a lawsuit before the District Court of Massachusetts against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for the SEVP Termination. See Complaint below.

  
  

Complaint.pdf

Download PDF • 716KB

• On the same day of 05/23/2025, Harvard also filed an Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order, which is pending for the Court's decision. See Motion for TRO below.

Motion for TRO.pdf

Download PDF • 213KB

What You Should Do Immediately

1. Contact a Designated School Official (DSO) or Responsible Officer (RO)

Although Harvard's SEVP certification is terminated, the International Office may still provide transition guidance. Request an official copy of your SEVIS record and academic transcripts.

2. Seek Legal Counsel

Engage a qualified immigration attorney immediately to consult specific advices for you. You will need legal support to evaluate your options, file timely applications, or prepare for possible transfer or departure.

3. Prepare for a School Transfer (F-1 Students)

Identify SEVP-certified institutions willing to issue a new I-20 and accept your transfer.

4. J-1 Program Transfers

Contact the U.S. Department of State or a new J-1 sponsor to request a transfer of your program sponsorship. A J-1 transfer must be coordinated before your SEVIS record is invalidated.

5. Consider Reinstatement (If SEVIS is Terminated)

You may be eligible to apply for F-1 or J-1 reinstatement by filing Form I-539 with USCIS. This requires strong documentation and evidence that the termination was beyond your control.

6. Evaluate Change of Status Options

If transfer or reinstatement is not feasible, you may consider changing your status to B-2 or another nonimmigrant category while preparing for next steps.

Conclusion

The termination of Harvard University’s SEVP certification is an extraordinary event, but affected students and scholars do have options. Immediate action is critical to protect your immigration status. Engage legal counsel, maintain documentation of your academic progress, and begin identifying alternative institutions or sponsors.

Stay informed, act quickly, and do not hesitate to seek professional assistance.