BOSTON — A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction that allows Harvard University to continue enrolling international students despite the Trump administration’s attempt to revoke the institution’s access to its Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification. The ruling, delivered on Friday, pauses the government’s May 22 action while the case is litigated in court.

United States District Judge Allison D. Burroughs ordered the federal government to provide guidance to consular and customs officials, instructing them to ignore the revocation of Harvard’s certification and to document their compliance within 72 hours. However, she did not grant all the measures that Harvard had requested in its injunction proposal, including a categorical ban on the Trump administration’s restrictions affecting international student entry.

While the injunction allows for the continued enrollment of international students, it does not prevent the enforcement of a June 4 entry ban targeting holders of Harvard-sponsored visas. A temporary restraining order against that ban will remain in effect until further proceedings. The ruling also did not suspend the government’s second attempt to rescind Harvard’s SEVP status, which could take effect as soon as this Wednesday.

In a statement following the ruling, a Harvard spokesperson emphasized the importance of the injunction in maintaining the university’s ability to welcome international scholars. The Harvard International Office reassured current international students, asserting the university’s commitment to opposing any actions that threaten its SEVP certification.

The legal clash intensified after the Department of Homeland Security requested extensive records related to international students, including their involvement in protests. Harvard partially complied with the request but was informed by the DHS that its response was insufficient, leading to the revocation of its SEVP status. Following the legal action taken by Harvard, Judge Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order within hours.

The situation escalated further when the State Department directed consular staff to deny visa applications for Harvard students in the wake of the June 4 proclamation, only to retract that guidance shortly thereafter, following the judge’s intervention. This pattern of conflicting directives has created chaos for international students attempting to navigate the visa process.

Burroughs’s ruling highlighted the ongoing uncertainty for international students, who have faced difficulties due to inconsistent enforcement of regulations. The judge did not require the government to submit a copy of the guidance issued to consulates, which was another request made by Harvard to help reassure students and ensure compliance with the court order.

As the case develops, Harvard’s ability to enroll international students remains vital. The university’s administration has been vocal about its commitment to safeguarding the rights of its students amidst changing federal policies that directly impact their education and well-being. The legal battle is set to continue as both sides prepare for the next steps following the judge’s preliminary injunction.