‘No one wants to hire us’: Indian students at Harvard caught in Trump’s crossfire

Amid an escalating political battle between the Trump administration and Harvard University, Indian students enrolled at the Ivy League institution say they are grappling with deep anxiety and uncertainty over their futures.

Harvard’s eligibility to enrol international students has been suspended following a series of measures initiated by the Trump administration, including the freezing of USD 2.2 billion in federal grants and termination of its Student and Exchange Visitor Programme (SEVP) certification. The Department of Homeland Security accused the university of fostering an unsafe environment and failing to provide requested data on foreign students' alleged threats or illegal activity.

The impact on international students—especially Indians—has been profound. Many are struggling to find jobs, with companies reportedly backing out after learning applicants are Harvard graduates due to concerns over visa volatility.

A graduate from the Harvard Kennedy School described the past few months as a “rollercoaster,” adding that she is unsure whether to return to India, remain in the US, or move to a third country. Another graduate from the Harvard Graduate School of Design said the sudden SEVP termination was “unbelievable,” just days after their final presentations.

Some students had initially planned to return to India but hoped to gain US work experience and earn enough to repay student loans. Those dreams are now in limbo. Students expressed frustration that the “Harvard tag” no longer offers assurance to employers as it once did.

Although US courts have stalled some of Trump’s orders, the uncertainty remains. According to one student, even companies in the final stages of hiring pulled back after learning of their Harvard background. Several international students are now returning home or considering options in Europe.

The issue is also affecting incoming students. Although no visa denials have been reported, many are reconsidering joining Harvard due to the high risk of losing scholarships or being left without legal status.

As of the 2024–25 academic year, Harvard hosts 788 Indian students and scholars. The wider implications of these administrative moves have raised serious concerns over the future of global education mobility and the American Dream for students worldwide.
(With PTI inputs)