The Japanese government has urged its universities to open their doors to international students impacted by recent US policies under President Donald Trump. Last week, the US federal government announced the revocation of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification for Harvard University, effectively barring the institution from admitting international students. This decision has sparked protests within the US academic community and caused unease among international students.
Japan's Minister of Education, Toshiko Abe, announced on May 27 that she has instructed Japanese universities to take supportive measures, such as admitting international students who were already accepted by US universities, to help them continue their studies. Abe further noted that the US is a top destination for Japanese students, many of whom have expressed concerns about the future of their studies in America.
The University of Tokyo recently disclosed to Japanese media that it is considering temporarily admitting international students affected by US policies. Similarly, a spokesperson for Kyoto University stated that the institution is exploring options to host young researchers currently studying in the US.
The Trump administration has been pressuring leading US universities, including Harvard, to reform their admissions and recruitment policies. These reforms include abolishing diversity programs that favor minorities, addressing alleged anti-Semitism on campuses, and complying with federal requirements. Institutions failing to meet these demands risk losing federal funding.
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