Germany Welcomes Displaced Harvard Students: A New Academic Home

In a move that’s left thousands of students in shock, the U.S. government has revoked Harvard University’s certification to enroll international students. This decision has impacted over 6,700 students, many of whom had chosen Harvard as their academic home, uprooting their lives and investing their hopes in a future that now feels uncertain.

As an organization that works closely with international students every day, we understand how heartbreaking and stressful this moment must be. You've worked hard to secure your place, and to have that taken away so suddenly is unfair and overwhelming.

But where doors close, others can open. And one such door may be Germany.

What’s Happening at Harvard Right Now?

On 22 May 2025, the Trump administration revoked Harvard University's certification to enroll international students. This change has impacted around 6,800 students who make up about 27% of the student body at Harvard. (NY Times, 2025) 

What does this mean for current students at Harvard? 

• Harvard's decision means that current international students must transfer to another university or they could lose their right to stay in the U.S. legally.
• This has made many international students feel stressed and unsure whether they can continue studying at Harvard.

May 22, 2025 – The Trump administration revokes Harvard’s ability to enroll international students, putting the legal status of over 6,700 students at risk.

May 24, 2025 – Harvard files a lawsuit challenging the decision, calling it unconstitutional and retaliatory.

May 27, 2025 – The administration announces plans to withdraw billions in federal research funding from Harvard, proposing to redirect it to trade schools and infrastructure projects.

May 28, 2025 – Federal judge Allison Burroughs issues a temporary restraining order (TRO), allowing international students at Harvard to stay enrolled and retain their legal status.

May 29, 2025 – Judge Burroughs extends the TRO and signals that she intends to issue a preliminary injunction to maintain stability while the legal case continues.

Current status – The Department of Homeland Security has given Harvard 30 days to submit official documents and sworn statements to contest the revocation. The situation remains ongoing. (NBC News, 2025)

Key Considerations for Students Planning to Study in the U.S.

The Harvard ban has created uncertainty and anxiety for current and prospective students who want to study in the USA. The Trump administration has also revealed that they may extend this ban to other universities and propose cap limits on the percentage of international students that universities can enroll. (BBC, 2025)

🛑 Uncertainty in visa and immigration policies
Sudden policy changes, like the recent attempt to ban international students at Harvard, can put your legal status at risk, even after admission.

⚖️ Legal battles create instability
Ongoing court cases (like the one involving Harvard) show that international students’ futures in the U.S. can depend on unpredictable legal decisions.

🕰️ Delays and disruptions in studies
Policy shifts can force students to transfer, pause their education, or face stressful reapplication processes.

💰 High financial risk
U.S. education is expensive, and unexpected changes can result in wasted tuition fees or relocation costs.

🌍 Better options in more stable countries
Countries like Germany offer quality education with stable, student-friendly policies,  while funding cuts in the U.S. could harm university standards.

✅ Safer planning = smoother experience
Choosing a country where international students are consistently supported means you can focus on your studies, not your legal status.

Germany Steps Forward with Support

In a show of solidarity, Germany has extended an invitation to host an “exile campus” for Harvard’s international students. While the idea is still in early stages, it reflects something much bigger: Germany’s long-standing commitment to academic freedom, global cooperation, and inclusive education.

At a time when many feel pushed out, Germany is sending a clear message that you are welcome here.

Interested in studying in Germany?

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Why Choose Germany to Continue Your Studies?

If you're now reconsidering where to continue your education, Germany is worth serious thought. Here's why thousands of international students choose it every year:

Top-Ranked Universities Competing Globally

German universities are not just affordable, they’re also globally prestigious. Institutions like the Technical University of Munich (TUM), LMU Munich, Heidelberg University, and RWTH Aachen consistently rank in the QS World University Rankings Top 100. For example, TUM often ranks higher than well-known U.S. universities such as Purdue, Penn State, and even Boston University. These universities are leaders in fields like engineering, natural sciences, and humanities, matching or surpassing their U.S. counterparts in academic excellence and research output.

High-Quality Education Without the Price Tag

Public universities in Germany often charge little to no tuition fees even for non-EU students. Yet, they offer top-notch education, rigorous academic environments, and globally recognized degrees.

This absence of tuition fees does not translate to a lack of support or academic quality in Germany. Germany is home to some of the top-ranking public universities. These universities are highly respected globally and popular among international students. 

💡 - If you'd like to explore a curated list of the best universities in Germany for international students, check out this detailed guide:
👉 Best Universities for International Students in Germany

English-Taught Programs Are Everywhere

From engineering to international relations to computer science, more and more programs are available entirely in English,  especially at the master’s level. With a rise in demand from international students, universities in Germany also offer English-taught programs for bachelor's degrees.

Are you curious to find out what's in store for you as an international student considering Germany as your study destination? Check out the StudyBuddy Program Database and search through 2000+ degree programs taught in English in Germany.  

Safe, Welcoming, and Culturally Rich

Germany is a safe country with vibrant cities, excellent public transport, and a high quality of life. Whether you’re drawn to the innovation hubs of Berlin and Munich or the university town charm of Heidelberg and Tübingen, there’s a place for everyone.

Strong Career Opportunities After Graduation

With a thriving economy and international companies in nearly every sector, Germany also offers clear post-study work opportunities. You’re not just studying, you’re building a future. With the 18-month job search visa, international students have plenty of time to look for a job in Germany after graduation.

From the USA to Germany: What You Need to Know

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We Hear You and We're Here to Help

At Expatrio, we work with international students who move to Germany every single day. We’ve seen the struggles and the successes. That’s why we created StudyBuddy, your personal assistant for studying in Germany.

StudyBuddy Helps You:

• Find the Right Course:
  Take our All-in-One Quiz to discover which fields of study align with your interests and goals.

• Prepare and Plan:
  Use the Checklist to keep track of everything! From applying to universities, getting health insurance, and preparing for your visa.

• Get Practical Guidance:
  Join our StudyBuddy webinars where we explain how to apply, what to prepare, and what to expect.

Whether you're feeling lost or confused or need a starting point, we're here to help make the process easier.

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July 31st, 2025

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