In an unusual but significant move, Harvard University has advised incoming international students to avoid entering the U.S. through Boston Logan International Airport. The guidance was issued during a recent webinar hosted by Harvard’s International Office in collaboration with the Harvard Law School Immigration & Refugee Clinic. Citing increasing cases of secondary inspections and digital scrutiny, university officials warned that Boston Logan may subject students—especially those from countries like Iran and China—to more intensive questioning and device searches.
Students were also cautioned about the potential risks of digital content on their phones and laptops. Officials highlighted that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents have the authority to inspect devices and review social media activity. Any political content, particularly posts critical of the U.S. government, pro-Palestine views, or antisemitic remarks, could potentially lead to delays or even denial of entry.
Boston Logan Flagged as “High-Risk” Entry Point
While Harvard has not released formal data categorizing airport risks, anecdotal evidence shared by its legal advisors suggests that Boston Logan has become a flashpoint for heightened scrutiny. Jason Corral, Harvard’s immigration attorney, noted that several students—especially those in STEM and AI fields—have faced lengthy interrogations at Logan. He cited instances involving Iranian students and the recent detainment of a Russian researcher who was held for months over customs issues after arriving at Logan.
In contrast, airports such as JFK in New York, O’Hare in Chicago, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are reportedly perceived as more student-friendly, with fewer issues related to border control delays. Harvard is therefore recommending these hubs as safer alternatives for international arrivals.
Additionally, university advisors discouraged wiping devices clean before travel, as it could raise red flags with border agents. Instead, students are urged to travel with minimal devices, log out of personal accounts, and avoid storing politically sensitive materials.
Advisory Comes Amid Harvard–Trump Administration Tensions
This advisory comes in the wake of escalating tensions between Harvard and the Trump administration. In May 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security revoked Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, which would have blocked the university from enrolling foreign students on F-1 and J-1 visas. Harvard, however, successfully secured a preliminary injunction to continue admissions for international students.
The crackdown also included a freeze on over $2.6 billion in research funding and attempts to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status, citing alleged ideological bias and antisemitism.
In light of these developments, Harvard has taken a proactive stance to protect its international student community. Students are encouraged to be digitally cautious, carry comprehensive documentation, and prepare for additional questioning, especially if entering through smaller or politically sensitive ports of entry. As the U.S. political climate becomes increasingly complex, Harvard’s message is clear: be informed, be prepared, and choose your arrival point wisely.
Sources:
https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2025/7/4/harvard-webinar-international-students
