Chicago – July 23, 2025
The U.S. State Department is launching an investigation into Harvard University’s ability to continue sponsoring the Exchange Visitor Program, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday. This move is part of the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to challenge Harvard University.
The investigation is meant to make sure that State Department programs align with the country’s interests. However, Rubio did not provide more details about what the investigation will focus on.
The Trump administration had previously taken action to revoke Harvard’s right to host international students and professors through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program in May. But a federal judge, Allison Burroughs, blocked that decision.
This investigation is specifically looking into people at Harvard who hold J-1 visas. These visas are used for foreign professors, researchers, specialists, and students. This is different from the F-1 visa program, which is for students and is mostly managed by the Department of Homeland Security.
