US universities get $5.2 bn in foreign funds; Harvard, MIT, Stanford top list; Qatar largest donor — details here

In 2025, U.S. universities received a substantial influx of foreign funds, totaling over $5.2 billion. Among these institutions, Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Stanford University were the standout recipients, collectively securing more than half of the total amount. Notably, Qatar emerged as the largest donor, highlighting the growing trend of international investment in American higher education. This surge in foreign contributions comes amidst heightened scrutiny from the U.S. government, which has implemented a new transparency portal through the Department of Education to monitor and regulate foreign funding in the sector. This initiative aims to ensure accountability and safeguard national interests as educational institutions increasingly rely on international partnerships and financial support. The implications of these foreign funds raise important questions about influence and educational integrity, prompting discussions on the balance between financial support and national security concerns.