Trump vs Harvard Issue FAQs:
President Donald Trump has been continually challenging Harvard University. First, he halted a $2 billion funding, and then, by immediately canceling the university's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, he closed the doors for international students at Harvard. The Trump administration told about 7,000 international students studying at Harvard they must transfer to other schools or risk losing their lawful status to stay in the U.S.
Recent Trump administration decisions have sparked confusion and concern among Indian students dreaming of studying in the U.S. or currently involved in the admission process. The decision involves a temporary halt on new slots for American visa interviews. India Today conversed with education and visa consultant Karan Gupta, a Harvard alumnus, to understand the impact of this decision on students through five key questions.
1. If I have already applied for a visa, will the process halt?
No, if you have previously applied for a U.S. student visa and secured an interview date, your application will not be affected. You can attend your interview as scheduled. This halt only applies to new interview slots. However, this decision may increase the timeline and uncertainty of the visa process.
Read Also: 'Harvard Has Over $4 Billion in Funds', After U.S. Court Halt Trump Demands 31% Students' Details
2. If I've been admitted to a U.S. university, what should I do now?
Your admission remains valid, but if you haven't secured a visa slot yet, there is a current obstacle. Karan Gupta advises staying in contact with your university's international student office. Many universities may offer options like deferring admission or starting online classes. Wait a few weeks, as visa slots may become available again.
3. Can I apply for a U.S. visa now, or should I wait?
Yes, you can apply for a visa. If you find an interview slot anywhere in the country—Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, or another city—book it immediately. Keep your documents ready and stay updated. However, securing an interview slot at this time may be challenging.
Read Also: Indians Donated Billions to Harvard and Other U.S. Institutions, Yet Trump Administration Shuts Doors
4. Should I apply to other countries' universities as a backup?
Absolutely, to minimize risk, you should apply to universities in other countries. Alternatives like the UK, several European countries, and Singapore remain open. If you feel your U.S. education plans might be delayed, consider applying to these countries. Keep your U.S. admission on hold, but secure your education with other options.
5. Will this halt prevent me from enrolling for an entire year?
Not necessarily. A year-long deferment is the worst-case scenario, but many universities are flexible. Even during COVID-19, universities offered online classes or deferred admissions. Contact your university and understand the options they provide. In most instances, your year won't go to waste.
Watch the entire video here-
Karan Gupta states this situation is unprecedented and represents not just a visa issue but a geopolitical signal. Students need to be patient and stay in contact with their universities. Additionally, securing your career by applying to other countries is crucial. For more information, keep checking updates on the respective universities and official visa websites.
