Harvard University is preparing to borrow $750 million through taxable bonds in response to ongoing scrutiny from the federal government regarding its handling of antisemitism on campus.
The Trump administration recently launched a review of nearly $9 billion in federal grants and contracts awarded to Harvard. The investigation is being conducted by the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism and focuses on the university’s compliance with civil rights laws following student-led protests related to the Israel-Gaza war.
In a statement, Harvard said the bond issuance is part of routine financial planning intended to support its academic and research programs. The university currently holds approximately $7.1 billion in debt, and its endowment is valued at $53 billion.
Other Ivy League schools are facing similar reviews. Columbia University agreed to implement new campus policies after the government cut $400 million in federal funding. Princeton is also reportedly considering a $320 million bond sale after its research grants were frozen.
As part of the federal review, officials have issued specific demands to Harvard, including disciplinary measures for students involved in masked protests and stricter guidelines for campus demonstrations.
The administration has warned that failure to comply with federal conditions could result in the loss of future funding.
