On July 23, 2025, the Department of State (DOS) announced an investigation into Harvard University’s “continued eligibility as a sponsor” for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
The announcement referenced national security concerns generally but provided no specifics on why Harvard was being investigated. According to reports, Secretary of State Marco Rubio gave Harvard one week to provide many university records related to the visa program. Mr. Rubio also said DOS will interview university staff and visa holders. Harvard said the investigation was “another retaliatory step” in violation of the university’s First Amendment rights. Harvard said it would “protect its international community and support them as they apply for U.S. visas and travel to campus this fall.”
