US crackdown jeopardises Belgian princess's Harvard degree as Trump’s new law targets foreign students

Princess Elisabeth of Belgium, the 23-year-old heir to the throne, may be forced to abandon her studies at Harvard University following a sweeping crackdown by the Trump administration on foreign students.

The first-year master's student has completed one year of her public policy program, but her future at the prestigious US institution is now uncertain, Caliber.Az reports, referring to Western media.

On May 23, President Donald Trump’s administration revoked Harvard’s authorisation to enrol international students, ordering existing foreign students to either transfer to other institutions or face losing their legal status in the United States. Officials have warned that the policy could soon be extended to other universities.

“The impact of [the Trump administration’s] decision will only become clearer in the coming days or weeks. We are currently investigating the situation,” said Lore Vandoorne, a spokesperson for the Belgian royal palace.

Xavier Baert, the palace's communication director, added: “We are analysing this at the moment and will let things settle. A lot can still happen in the coming days and weeks.”

Princess Elisabeth, eldest daughter of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, is pursuing a two-year master’s degree in public policy, a program that Harvard describes as one that broadens students’ perspectives and hones their skills for a “successful career in public service.” Prior to Harvard, she studied history and politics at the University of Oxford.

Harvard University condemned the Trump administration’s decision on May 23, calling it illegal and a retaliatory move that could affect thousands of students like Princess Elisabeth across the country.

By Tamilla Hasanova