The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on July 20 that it is investigating Harvard University over concerns that its financial aid programs funded by China-based sources may violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. The investigation stems from Harvard’s foreign funding disclosures, which revealed nearly $4.5 billion in foreign funding, including $630 million from China—the university’s largest source of foreign funding. The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division raised concerns that some of these funds may require Harvard to prioritize students from specific countries, potentially excluding American students.
Core Facts and Immediate Action
The DOJ’s review follows a notice letter sent to Harvard, which did not conclude any wrongdoing but seeks to determine whether the university’s financial aid programs discriminate based on national origin. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stated that schools cannot accept federal funds while using foreign money to exclude U.S. citizens from financial aid. Harvard has denied the allegations, asserting it follows all legal requirements for reporting donations and does not discriminate in financial aid allocation.
Deeper Dive and Context
Foreign Funding and Title VI Compliance
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on national origin by institutions receiving federal funding. Universities must report foreign gifts and contracts exceeding $250,000 annually. The DOJ’s investigation focuses on whether Harvard’s financial aid programs, funded by China-based sources, include restrictions that favor foreign students over U.S. citizens. The DOJ requested documents related to these contributions and Harvard’s policies for handling foreign gifts with restrictions tied to national origin.
Harvard’s Response and Legal Obligations
Harvard has stated it complies with Title VI and does not unlawfully discriminate in financial aid allocation. The university is reviewing the DOJ’s notice but has not provided further comment on the investigation. The DOJ emphasized that the review is ongoing and no conclusions have been reached.
Broader Implications
The investigation highlights growing scrutiny over foreign funding in U.S. higher education, particularly from China. It also raises questions about how universities balance federal funding requirements with foreign donations that may carry restrictions. The outcome of the review could set precedents for how institutions handle similar financial aid programs in the future.