Harvard University has declined a set of federal directives that threatened its academic autonomy, rejecting conditions linked to billions in government support.

The U.S. administration sent a letter on April 11 outlining ten stipulations for continued federal funding, citing Harvard's alleged failure to address antisemitism on campus. The demands included dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, modifying hiring practices to incorporate "viewpoint diversity," and complying with immigration enforcement for student evaluations.

In a formal response, Harvard President Alan Garber stated the university would not adhere to mandates it sees as unconstitutional intrusions. "Many of the administration’s demands go beyond combating antisemitism and instead attempt to impose ideological control over academic affairs," Garber said. He emphasized the importance of institutional independence in hiring, admissions, and research direction.

The federal government accused Harvard of not meeting conditions necessary for public investment, arguing that funding is contingent on upholding both intellectual rigor and civil rights standards. The administration’s communication framed continued investment as conditional, not guaranteed.

Attorneys representing Harvard, William Burck and Robert Hur, contended that the demands infringe on First Amendment protections. "No administration has the authority to enforce requirements that contravene constitutional freedoms," their joint statement read.

In reaction to Harvard’s refusal, the government imposed an immediate freeze on approximately $2.2 billion in research grants and a separate $60 million contract. These funds support a wide range of programs, from medical and public health research to student financial aid.

Despite the significant sum at stake, Harvard’s leadership signaled it is ready to absorb the financial hit. Backed by a $53.2 billion endowment — the largest of any university globally — the institution covers up to 40 per cent of its annual budget through returns on its investments. Though much of the endowment is earmarked for specific purposes, its overall size offers resilience against federal funding fluctuations.

The funding suspension primarily affects scientific and health-related research, innovation hubs, and government partnerships with federal agencies such as the NIH and Department of Energy. University officials expressed concern over potential delays in projects and the chilling effect on faculty seeking federal grants.

Harvard’s tuition and associated costs surpass $80,000 annually, but the university maintains that its financial aid program ensures affordability. Over half of undergraduates receive need-based support, and families earning below $85,000 typically pay no tuition.

Admissions remain highly competitive. For the Class of 2028, only 3.59 per cent of 54,000 applicants were accepted. Harvard currently enrolls about 24,500 students across all schools.

The federal government’s scrutiny extends beyond Harvard, with similar pressure applied to Columbia University and other campuses witnessing pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Critics argue these actions represent an effort to reshape higher education in alignment with partisan goals, under the guise of combating antisemitism.