University of Toronto set to welcome Harvard students facing immigration hurdles in the United States
In response to recent changes proposed by the US Department of Homeland Security regarding international student enrollment, Harvard University has announced a contingency plan for its international students at the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). The University of Toronto has been selected to develop this plan, with the aim of providing a smooth transition for students during disruptions.
Under this arrangement, HKS students who encounter visa issues will be able to return to academic activities at the University of Toronto's Munk School. This option is available up until September 11, 2025, after which students are generally expected to remain in their chosen program – either HKS Global or HKS at Munk – until the end of the semester.
Students enrolled in this contingency program will have access to co-curricular activities at the Munk School and will be enrolled as full-time, non-degree special students. They will be able to take a mix of online and in-person courses taught by both HKS and University of Toronto faculty. In fact, international students can complete their HKS degree from the Munk School's campus in Toronto.
To participate in this program, students will need to apply for a Canadian study permit. Other required documents include a Provincial Attestation Letter or Territorial Attestation Letter. Once the documents have been collected and the application submitted, international students are issued with a temporary resident visa or an electronic travel authorization (after an application is approved).
It's worth noting that both new and returning international students will have the option to enroll in HKS Global, a blended program combining online learning with in-person sessions in select locations.
The contingency plan will move forward if there is sufficient demand from affected international students and pending approval from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
The University of Toronto, regularly considered one of the top-ranking universities in the world, offers a favourable academic reputation, employment outcomes, employer reputation, and international student diversity. According to the 2026 QS World University Ranking, UofT was ranked 29th globally.
International students applying for a Canadian study permit also have to show proof of financial support. Additionally, they may need to provide biometrics, undergo an immigration medical exam, and/or provide one or more police certificate(s) to attain a Canadian study permit.
This marks the first time one of Harvard's schools has introduced an international student contingency plan. The University of Toronto has entered into an agreement to assist international students from HKS who may have trouble re-entering the US.
In conclusion, the contingency plan offers a valuable solution for HKS international students facing visa issues, allowing them to continue their studies at the University of Toronto's Munk School. This arrangement underscores Harvard's commitment to supporting its international students during challenging times.
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