Two prestigious universities in the United States are taking legal action against the government over an immigration rule they say will force international students to leave the country.

Under the rule, foreign students would be barred from staying in the country if their colleges don't hold in-person classes. 

Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology - two of the highest-ranking universities in the world - have now asked a federal court to block the rule.

Harvard President, LAWRENCE BACOW said they will pursue the case vigorously so that international students at institutions across the country can continue their studies without the threat of deportation.