Former President Donald Trump was the protagonist in the latest Harvard University scandal, where he stated that numerous foreign students of the university come from countries that give no financial support for their education. His statements have once again started the discussion on the issue of international students’ funding and the financial situation of the most prestigious universities in the US.
During a rally, Trump claimed that students coming from abroad, especially those from rich countries, are undertaking their education at the expense of the American people. “Harvard is full of students from countries that pay nothing—they take advantage of our system,” he said, without clarifying the names of the nations to which he was referring.
Harvard, following the practice of most Ivy League schools, not only charges high tuition fees but also provides a significant number of financial aids including the need-based scholarships for domestic and international students. It can be noted that foreign students hardly receive federal aid, but they are awarded by their home nations, private sponsors, or the university.
Those who are against the Trump’s speech do not mention the fact that international students usually pay the full amount of the tuition, which covers the rest of the university’s operation. These students are also spending money on rent, goods, and services that together comprise billions that go into the economy.
As of now, Harvard has not made any direct reaction regarding Trump’s speech, however, university advocates underline its good name worldwide in terms of attracting the best regardless of where they come from. This discussion is part of a bigger picture related to matters connected with immigration, educational funding sources, and America as a place for international scholars.
It is in the light of the context of presidential claims that Trump’s latest remarks occur within the scope of the universities that are considered rich in relation to the misuse of funds in this environment. The debatable point here is if the claims of his are valid or not, but the discussion still refers to the intricate economics of the higher education system in America.
