July 23, 2025: The U.S. Department of State says it’s opening an investigation into Harvard University’s continued eligibility as a sponsor for the Exchange Visitor Programme.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a statement on Wednesday, said that all sponsors participating in this programme are required to fully comply with exchange visitor regulations, transparency in reporting, and a demonstrated commitment to fostering the principles of cultural exchange and mutual understanding upon which the programme was founded.
According to Rubio, to maintain their privilege to sponsor exchange visitors, sponsors must comply with all regulations, including conducting their programmes in a manner that does not undermine the foreign policy objectives or compromise the national security interests of the United States.
He noted that the American people have the right to expect their universities to uphold national security, comply with the law, and provide safe environments for all students.
“The investigation will ensure that State Department programmes do not run contrary to our nation’s interests,” he said.
