Donald Trump's administration has opened a new investigation into Harvard to determine whether some financial aid programs for international students could be improperly excluding American citizens.

The announcement was made by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), which reported that it will review programs financed with contributions from China. The investigation seeks to establish whether certain scholarships or financial support reserved for students from certain countries could constitute a form of discrimination based on national origin.

Department of Justice puts the magnifying glass on Chinese funds

According to information published by the AP agency, federal authorities indicated that Harvard's statements about foreign funding have raised concerns related to compliance with civil rights laws.

The review focuses on economic aid programs backed by Chinese donors. According to the DOJ, some contributions would have gone exclusively to students from certain countries, a practice that could conflict with federal regulations if it affects the opportunities of American students.

“Schools cannot receive federal funds and then accept money from foreign sources to provide financial aid that deliberately excludes American citizens,” said Harmeet Dhillon, director of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division.

Harvard denies having acted illegally

In response, Harvard indicated that it is reviewing the official notification and maintained that it complies with all legal obligations related to the receipt of foreign funds.

The university said it reports donations in accordance with the law and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity or national origin when granting financial aid. In addition, he recalled that it is one of the few American institutions that offers financial support based on financial need to both national and international students.

Federal records show that Harvard has reported about $630 million from Chinese sources over several decades and about $4.5 billion in total foreign funding.

Another chapter in the dispute between Trump and Harvard

The investigation adds to a series of actions promoted by the Trump administration against Harvard. In recent months, the federal government has also questioned its admissions processes, its handling of foreign students and its use of federal funds for research.

For now, the DOJ clarified that the review is in a preliminary stage and that it has not reached any conclusions about possible violations of the law.