Harvard College’s unexpected denial of winter break housing applications has left many international students on financial aid scrambling for accommodations. This decision, which deviates from the college’s typical practice of providing winter housing to students who meet certain criteria, has sparked outrage among the student body. Nearly 300 students signed a petition protesting the decision, which they are calling “Harvard’s winter housing crisis.” Previously, international students on full financial aid could easily secure housing, but this year, many students from countries like Brazil, India, and Zimbabwe had their applications rejected. Harvard officials stated they are committed to helping students with housing challenges but have not fully explained the policy change.
