Boston: A Taiwanese doctoral student at Harvard University has expressed concerns over the recent U.S. government’s decision to pause the enrollment of international students, describing the move as “extremely disruptive” to his life.

According to Focus Taiwan, Wayne Chan, a PhD candidate in Harvard’s Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, highlighted the broader impact of the order. It affects not only prospective international students but also those already in the U.S. on exchange visitor visas and academic F-1 visas. The order includes those who completed their bachelor’s or master’s degrees after 2024 and PhDs after 2023, who are on optional practical training or academic training post-graduation. Furthermore, it impacts international scholars on J visas, such as postdoctoral researchers and exchange visitors.

Chan was referring to an order issued by President Donald Trump’s administration, revoking Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification. This followe
d the university’s refusal to comply with a demand by the Department of Homeland Security for detailed student body records, amid accusations of fostering an unsafe campus environment.

The Department of Homeland Security accused Harvard of allowing anti-American and pro-terrorist activities on its campus. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the administration is holding the university accountable for alleged acts of violence and antisemitism, and for purported coordination with the Chinese Communist Party.

Harvard has temporarily suspended the order by filing a lawsuit against the administration. A restraining order was issued by Boston Judge Allison Burroughs, blocking the administration’s move to strip Harvard of its ability to enroll foreign students, on grounds of potential irreparable injury to the university.

Chan expressed his concerns over the uncertainties surrounding the university’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program and the status of current student visa holders. He emphasized
the stress and disruption caused by the situation, describing the challenges faced by many international students, including potential relocation.

While Chan stated he had not witnessed acts of antisemitism or coordination with the Chinese Communist Party, he acknowledged financial support from China and noted the complex nature of international scholars participating in protests.

Chan refrained from speculating on the political motivations behind the U.S. government’s actions, suggesting they might be intended to protect national security. However, he pointed out the chaos and instability these actions have introduced into the lives of international students, leading many to reconsider their future in the U.S.