Harvard Eyes $500 Million Deal With White House Over Antisemitism, Funding Clash: Report

Last Updated:July 29, 2025, 17:21 IST

The recent settlement reached between Columbia University and the Trump administration appears to have set a precedent for other universities.

Harvard has been embroiled in an extended conflict with the Trump administration since April (Reuters/File Image)

Harvard University is preparing to resolve its long-standing dispute with the Trump administration by agreeing to a substantial settlement of $500 million, according to a report by The New York Times. The development follows closely on the heels of Columbia University’s decision to pay over $200 million to restore its federal funding and settle allegations of civil rights violations.

Harvard has been embroiled in an extended conflict with the Trump administration over accusations of antisemitism on campus. While the administration threatened to bar international students and withdraw federal funding, the university responded by pursuing legal avenues. Earlier this year, the administration moved to cut off Harvard’s federal funding, alleging that the institution had discriminated against Jewish students, faculty, and staff, and citing violations of Section 6 of the Civil Rights Act.

The recent settlement reached between Columbia University and the Trump administration appears to have set a precedent, offering a potential route for other universities to resolve similar disputes. Sources informed The New York Times that the Ivy League institution is willing to pay as much as $500 million in a settlement. Nonetheless, it is also understood that Harvard’s leadership harbours concerns about making a direct payment to the government. As of now, the precise terms of the settlement remain under negotiation.

The confrontation between Harvard and the White House escalated into a legal matter in April, after the Trump administration ordered the university to meet specific conditions in order to continue receiving federal funds. Since then, a series of negotiations and communications have taken place. Reports indicate that Harvard’s leadership is generally inclined towards reaching a settlement, primarily to restore access to its federal funding, valued at over $2 billion, and to maintain the enrolment of international students.

A White House spokesperson confirmed to The New York Times on Monday that a settlement with Harvard may soon be reached. According to the spokesperson, the administration has demanded, “Don’t allow antisemitism and DEI to run your campus, don’t break the law, and protect the civil liberties of all students."

Education Secretary Linda McMahon has also expressed optimism regarding a possible resolution. “We’re hoping that Harvard will come to the table," McMahon told NewsNation last week, adding, “We’re already seeing other universities that are taking these measures before investigation or before our coming in to talk to them."

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News world Harvard Eyes $500 Million Deal With White House Over Antisemitism, Funding Clash: Report