Melania Trump shuts down false claims about Barron

Melania Trump has called out online rumors as “completely false,” firmly denying claims that her son Barron was rejected by top universities like Harvard. The statement comes as speculation swirled about the 18-year-old’s college choices after he enrolled at NYU’s Stern Business School last fall.

Barron Trump, the youngest child of former President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, started attending New York University’s Stern School of Business in the fall of 2024. Though he kept a low profile during the application process, his father previously said Barron was considering the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School — Donald’s own alma mater.

In a past interview with the Daily Mail, Donald Trump said the family “liked NYU,” calling it “one of the highest-rated schools.” Stern, in fact, is one of the toughest business programs to get into in the U.S., accepting only about 5% of applicants.

“Barron’s a very high-aptitude child,” Donald said. “But he’s no longer a child — he’s doing great.”

Despite Barron’s acceptance to a top business school, rumors started circulating online that he had been rejected by Ivy League schools like Harvard, Columbia, and Stanford. One viral Facebook post claimed these rejections were politically motivated, accusing elite colleges of turning him away because of his father’s actions and public criticisms.

Celebrity gossip site Nicki Swift picked up the story, citing these online discussions. However, no credible source confirmed the claims — and the popular fact-checking site Snopes was unable to verify if Barron ever applied to those schools in the first place.

Melania Trump speaks out to defend her son

Melania Trump, who has always fiercely guarded Barron’s privacy, decided to speak publicly to end the speculation. Through her office’s spokesperson Nick Clemens, she denied the rumor outright.

“Barron did not apply to Harvard and any assertion that he, or that anyone on his behalf, applied is completely false,” Clemens told Snopes.

The First Lady’s strong denial is part of a long-standing pattern — Melania has consistently prioritized her son’s well-being and protected him from the spotlight.

What college life looks like for Barron Trump

While Barron may not have the typical college experience, he’s reportedly adjusting in his own way. Due to his high-profile status, the Secret Service escorts him to and from class, making it harder to blend in like most students.

“He knows that he’s in a different position than other children,” Melania told Fox News in December, adding that her son is “very strong” and aware of his unique situation.

To socialize, TMZ reports that Barron uses Discord — a popular gaming and chat app — to connect with classmates over video games like EA Sports FC 25. A source also told People Magazine that Barron is “a ladies’ man” and well-liked by many at NYU.

The speculation around Barron’s college choices reflects more than curiosity — it’s part of a broader debate over privilege, politics, and legacy. Donald Trump has publicly criticized universities like Harvard for their stance on recent campus protests, accusing them of being anti-Semitic and admitting too many international students.

Given these tensions, the rumors may have taken off not because of Barron himself, but due to the public’s divided opinions about his father. Yet Melania’s swift response reminds us that Barron is still a young adult trying to find his own path.

Barron Trump didn’t apply to Harvard, and the claim that he was rejected is false — plain and simple. Melania Trump’s firm denial isn’t just about clearing up gossip; it’s about protecting her son from unfair scrutiny.

In a world where rumors travel faster than facts, her statement is a reminder to separate truth from fiction — especially when it involves young people trying to grow up under the weight of a famous last name.