Harvard University is taking proactive steps to protect its international student body in the face of potential immigration restrictions under a future Trump administration.

According to sources familiar with the discussions, the Ivy League institution has developed contingency plans with the University of Toronto, one of Canada’s top universities, to allow international students to continue their education in Canada if U.S. policies change unfavorably.

The move comes amid rising concerns over former President Donald Trump’s renewed efforts to restrict access to U.S. universities for foreign students. While no official policy has been implemented yet, Harvard is preparing for a scenario where international students may be barred or face heightened visa limitations, disrupting their ability to remain enrolled in American institutions.

Through the proposed partnership, affected students would be transitioned to the University of Toronto, ensuring that their academic journeys continue with minimal interruption. The collaboration would offer a seamless transfer process and preserve tuition arrangements and course credits wherever possible.

A spokesperson from Harvard emphasized the university’s longstanding commitment to global education and its desire to maintain an inclusive learning environment regardless of geopolitical developments.

This potential collaboration highlights how cross-border academic alliances may become increasingly important as universities brace for political shifts that could alter the landscape of international higher education.

Neither Harvard nor the University of Toronto has publicly confirmed the full details of the contingency agreement, but both institutions are believed to be working closely to finalize options that could be deployed if needed.