The U.S. Department of Justice has opened another investigation into Harvard University, this time examining whether certain financial aid programmes linked to China-based funding discriminate against American students.
The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division said it had launched a compliance review to determine whether Harvard’s financial aid practices exclude U.S. citizens based on the way the programmes are structured and funded.
The move adds another layer to the Trump administration’s escalating confrontation with the Ivy League institution.
Harvard has rejected any suggestion that it unlawfully discriminates in awarding financial aid. A university spokesperson said the institution was reviewing the department’s latest communication and would engage with federal officials.
The investigation appears to centre on funds originating from Chinese sources that may carry restrictions on how the money is distributed. According to the DOJ, Harvard could be using such funds to provide financial assistance to foreign students, potentially based on national origin, while disadvantaging students from other backgrounds, including Americans.
U.S. law requires universities to disclose foreign donations exceeding $250,000 in a year. Harvard has said it has complied with those reporting obligations for decades.
The latest inquiry comes as the administration continues a broader campaign targeting Harvard and other leading universities. Federal investigations and threats to suspend funding have focused on issues including campus protests over Israel’s war in Gaza, diversity programmes, transgender policies and climate-related initiatives.
Civil rights groups have warned that the federal pressure campaign could threaten academic freedom, free speech and due process. Harvard, meanwhile, has described several of the administration’s actions as retaliation for its refusal to give up institutional independence and constitutional protections.
A broader settlement between Harvard and the Trump administration remains unresolved.
The DOJ’s latest move also follows a federal court decision last month blocking an administration plan that would have prevented foreign nationals from entering the United States to study at Harvard.
China has opposed efforts to use education exchanges for political purposes, saying academic cooperation between the two countries should continue without disruption.
