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Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
US crushes study abroad dreams. This Asian superpower rushes to pick up the pieces
In a major escalation of tensions between the Trump administration and elite academic institutions, the U.S. government in May 2025 revoked Harvard University's authority to enroll international students. This move is part of a wider strategy to intensify scrutiny of foreign students and penalize universities deemed non-compliant with federal policies. The Department of Homeland Security cited irregularities in Harvard's international admissions processes, sparking legal action from the university and widespread concern in the academic community. ALSO READ: Yen for Japan: How Japanese culture is finding a new home in India This unprecedented action has disrupted the academic journey of more than 6,800 international students. Those currently enrolled or preparing to start their studies now face visa uncertainty, potential deportation, and disruption to their education. Universities across the U.S. are still working to understand the broader consequences, while affected students remain stuck in legal and administrative limbo. ALSO READ: Mass destruction for Japan? Tourists cancel plans after a psychic's 'real catastrophe' warning (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Asia Responds with Open Arms In response to the U.S. visa restrictions, countries in Asia are taking proactive steps to support displaced students. Hong Kong's Secretary for Education, Christine Choi, recently encouraged local universities to welcome international talent. In tandem, Hong Kong has introduced new policies allowing full-time international undergraduates to take part-time jobs without restrictions—an effort to improve their career prospects and retain global talent after graduation. Live Events ALSO READ: Harvard's ability to enrol international students halted by Trump administration Following Hong Kong's lead, Japan has also taken significant steps to assist international students impacted by the U.S. policy shift. Japan's Universities Step Up Japan's Ministry of Education, led by Minister Toshiko Abe, has officially urged domestic universities to explore ways to admit students affected by the situation in the United States. The focus is on maintaining academic continuity for those who were forced to abandon or pause their studies in American institutions. Two of Japan's most prestigious universities—the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University—have already begun responding. University of Tokyo Ranked 32nd in the QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Tokyo is considering temporary enrollment options for displaced students. University officials have confirmed that visa assistance and academic support measures are being developed to help affected students adjust smoothly. Kyoto University Kyoto University, a leading institution in Asia, is planning to host young researchers who have been impacted by the U.S. visa clampdown. Its International Undergraduate Program (iUP), which does not require prior Japanese language skills, offers financial aid including tuition waivers and monthly stipends. The 4.5-year program includes a six-month preparatory phase and is tailored to attract international students. Asia Emerges as a Global Education Destination These developments signal a broader shift in global academic trends. With high-quality education, inclusive policies, and a growing international presence, Asian universities are becoming increasingly attractive to global students—especially those reevaluating their U.S. education plans. Programs such as Japan's Global 30 and Top Global University Project are designed to increase international student intake and global engagement. Amid changing political dynamics, Asia's supportive stance may redefine the global study-abroad landscape and position the region as a leading destination for higher education. (With TOI inputs)
Time of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
After Harvard ban and US visa curb, these top Japanese universities step in: Is Asia the future of global education?
In May 2025, tensions between the Trump administration and leading US universities reached a breaking point when the government revoked Harvard University's certification to enroll international students. The decision came amid broader efforts by the administration to tighten oversight of foreign students and impose restrictions on academic institutions accused of non-compliance with federal guidelines. The Department of Homeland Security cited alleged misconduct involving international enrollment practices, triggering widespread concern and legal challenges from Harvard and advocacy groups. This unprecedented move has left over 6,800 international students in an unreliable state. Many who were enrolled at Harvard—or were set to begin studies in the coming semester—now face uncertainty about their academic future, visa status, and legal right to remain in the United States. Universities across the country are scrambling to understand the full implications, while students are caught in bureaucratic deadlock, unsure whether their education will be interrupted or permanently derailed. In response to the US visa restrictions, other countries have taken steps to support affected students. Earlier this month, Hong Kong's education secretary, Christine Choi, called on universities to welcome outstanding students from around the world. Additionally, Hong Kong introduced policies allowing full-time international undergraduate students to take up part-time jobs without restrictions, enhancing their professional exposure and encouraging them to remain in the city for career development after graduation. Following suit, Japan's Education Ministry has now stepped forward in solidarity with the international student community. Japanese universities open doors to displaced students Recognising the challenges faced by international students due to recent U.S. visa restrictions, the Japanese government has encouraged domestic universities to consider admitting those affected. The Ministry of Education, under the leadership of Education Minister Toshiko Abe, has formally requested institutions to explore support measures aimed at helping displaced students maintain academic continuity. This includes accommodating students previously enrolled at U.S. universities whose education has been disrupted. Currently, two of the top universities in Japan, University of Tokyo and Kyoto University, have stepped forward by opening their doors to students affected by the US visa crackdown. University of Tokyo The University of Tokyo is considering the temporary acceptance of affected students from the U.S. Vice President Kaori Hayashi mentioned that the university is exploring ways to support these students during this transitional period. Ranked at number 32 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, the university offers visa consulting services for international students, aiming to reduce the burden on faculty and administrative staff while ensuring students receive prompt assistance with visa-related inquiries. Kyoto University Kyoto University, ranked among the top 50 universities in Asia as per the QS rankings 2025, is contemplating the acceptance of young researchers from U.S. universities. The university is currently reviewing potential measures to assist students affected by the U.S. visa restrictions. Kyoto University offers the International Undergraduate Program (iUP), a 4.5-year program that includes a six-month preparatory course followed by a four-year undergraduate degree. The program is designed for students with no prior Japanese language proficiency and offers various financial support options, including tuition fee waivers and monthly scholarships. Is Asia going to be the new study abroad hotspot? The proactive measures taken by countries like Japan and Hong Kong highlight Asia's growing appeal as a study abroad destination. With supportive policies, quality education, and increasing internationalisation of universities, Asia is becoming an attractive option for students seeking alternatives to traditional Western institutions. Japan's initiatives, such as the Global 30 and Top Global University Project, aim to enhance the globalisation of the country's universities, making them more accessible to international students. As geopolitical tensions and policy changes impact international education landscapes, Asia's commitment to welcoming and supporting international students positions it as a promising hub for global learners. Ready to empower your child for the AI era? Join our program now! Hurry, only a few seats left.
The Independent
26-05-2025
- Politics
- The Independent
China invites foreign students with ‘unconditional offers' after Trump bans them from attending Harvard
China has stepped up and issued 'unconditional offers' to international students at Harvard amid the American university's ongoing conflict with the Donald Trump administration. The Trump administration last week revoked Harvard's ability to enrol international students, leaving foreign students with the choice of transferring to other universities or losing their legal status. A federal judge on Friday temporarily blocked the decision and set a hearing for 29 May. The ban, effective for the 2025-2026 academic year, came as the administration alleged that Harvard fostered antisemitism and coordinated with the Chinese Communist Party. The move affects around 1,300 Chinese students who make up about a fifth of Harvard's international enrollment. Hong Kong education secretary Christine Choi called on universities in the Chinese financial hub to welcome 'outstanding students from all over the world'. 'For international students affected by the United States' student admission policy, the Education Bureau has appealed to all universities in Hong Kong to provide facilitation measures for eligible students," Ms Choi said in a statement. The Education Bureau said it had contacted the Harvard Club of Hong Kong to offer support for students affected by the move. 'We'll continue to keep a close eye on the needs of students whose studies have been affected by the shifting global education landscape,' the bureau said, adding that it would consider support measures as part of the city's role as an "international education hub". The education secretary said that universities in Hong Kong were making use of government measures, including relaxing the maximum limits on foreign students, to attract pupils to the city. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology on Friday invited international students at Harvard to continue their studies at the city university. The university said it was ready to 'provide unconditional offers, streamlined admission procedures and academic support to facilitate a seamless transition for interested students'. Hong Kong, a city of 7.5 million people, has five universities in the top 100 of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. It was until recently regarded as one of Asia's freest academic arenas. Schools and universities in the city are now obliged to integrate national security and patriotic themes into their teaching, bringing them closer in line with education in mainland China. Mr Trump, meanwhile, demanded Harvard provide his administration with the 'names and countries' of all its international students. There would be some 6,793 names on such a list, according to the latest data shared by the university. 'Why isn't Harvard saying that almost 31% of their students are from FOREIGN LANDS, and yet those countries, some not at all friendly to the United States, pay NOTHING toward their students' education nor do they ever intend to,' he declared on his social media platform Truth Social. 'Nobody told us that!' The administration had previously warned that Harvard University 's federal funding was at risk if it did not comply with the president's demands, which included ending diversity programmes, submitting a 'viewpoint diversity' audit, and dissolving pro-Palestine demonstrations. But judge Allison Burroughs called the order a 'blatant violation of the constitution' and granted Harvard a temporary restraining order against the administration. Burroughs said Harvard's attorneys had shown the move would do 'immediate and irreparable injury' to the institution. Another federal judge had previously blocked the Trump administration from revoking the legal status for international students nationwide while a legal challenge was ongoing. Harvard's professors and staff have come out in support of their foreign students and the university administration has said it was committed to ensuring the students could stay.
Indian Express
25-05-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Harvard SEVP ban: which universities are stepping up to support international students?
The Trump administration revoked Harvard University's certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) earlier this week. The ban is effectively barring the university from enrolling international students and requiring nearly 6,800 current foreign enrollees to potentially face transfer or risk deportation. In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit challenging the administration's decision, arguing that the revocation violated the First Amendment, the due process clause, and the administrative procedure. Subsequently, a federal judge in Boston issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from enforcing the SEVP revocation. The judge's order prevents the government from 'implementing, instituting, maintaining, or giving effect' to the revocation until a court hearing is held. Following the legal action and the uncertain landscape for international students in the US, several global institutions and organisations stepped forward with support plans for Harvard's displaced F-1 visa holders. These measures, ranging from open admissions to full scholarships, offer alternative pathways for students affected by the US policy decision. Tetr College of Business: full scholarships for Harvard F-1 students Tetr College of Business launched a dedicated full-scholarship programme for incoming and current Harvard students holding F-1 visas. The initiative is part of Tetr's $10 million global scholarship fund and covers full tuition, normally around $200,000, for students enrolling in its August 2025 undergraduate cohort. Two programmes are available – Management and Technology, and Science and Artificial Intelligence. How can students apply? Students may apply by emailing transferadmissions@ with: –A short note explaining their visa status –Proof of Harvard enrollment or admission –A brief academic or personal profile Multiple institutes in Hong Kong announce support for students Among other countries and regions, the Hong Kong Education Bureau (Hong Kong SAR Government) has taken a proactive measure towards international students potentially facing deportation. Christine Choi, Hong Kong's Secretary for Education, urged all Hong Kong universities to introduce 'facilitation measures' for international students impacted by the US ban. According to local media reports, the city announced relaxed admission quotas, accelerated processing of students, and proactive efforts to welcome 'talented students' affected by the policy change. Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) HKBU reaffirmed its commitment to internationalisation, stating that it had a history of 'recruiting outstanding non-local students'. The university offered support to any displaced international student who chooses to enrol, promising assistance 'based on actual circumstances'. City University of Hong Kong (CityU): academic continuity and co-supervision options CityU announced support for international students facing academic disruption, including those at the doctoral level. The university extended offers to transfer students and said it would even arrange for their original PhD supervisors (outside Hong Kong) to co-supervise research work. The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK): support on research incentives CUHK emphasised its goal of attracting outstanding students globally and its commitment to offer 'comprehensive support.' The university is also exploring additional research funding to attract scholars who may now be seeking academic opportunities outside the US. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU): streamlined transfer and full programme admission PolyU invited students either enrolled or admitted to Harvard and other top US institutions to transfer directly into its undergraduate or postgraduate programmes. The university promised to 'facilitate the swift transition,' offering: –Full acceptance –Dedicated contact points –Personalised guidance throughout the process Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) HKUST extended an open invitation to all affected international students—whether currently enrolled or holding offers from Harvard. The university will provide: –Unconditional offers –Streamlined admission procedures –Academic credit transfers –Visa assistance and housing support The move is aimed at ensuring students can continue their academic pursuits with minimal disruption.
Free Malaysia Today
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Free Malaysia Today
Hong Kong opens universities to foreign students hit by US ban
Christine Choi said local universities were making use of government measures to accept the students. (EPA Images pic) HONG KONG : Hong Kong has said it will open its universities to more international students, highlighting those affected by the US government's move this week to block Harvard from enrolling foreign nationals. The sharp escalation in US President Donald Trump's longstanding feud with the prestigious university came as tensions simmer between Washington and Beijing over trade and other issues. The Trump administration's decision on Thursday – which was temporarily halted by a US judge after Harvard sued – has thrown the future of thousands of foreign students and the lucrative income stream they provide into doubt. On Friday, Hong Kong education secretary Christine Choi called on universities in the Chinese city to welcome 'outstanding students from all over the world'. 'For international students affected by the United States' student admission policy, the Education Bureau (EDB) has appealed to all universities in Hong Kong to provide facilitation measures for eligible students,' Choi said in a statement, noting the ban on Harvard's admission of international students. She said local universities were making use of government measures, including relaxing the maximum limits on foreign students to attract more to Hong Kong. Hong Kong University of Science and Technology on Friday invited international students enrolled at Harvard, as well as anyone with offers to attend the elite school, to continue their studies at HKUST. 'HKUST is extending this opportunity to ensure talented students can pursue their educational goals without disruption,' it said in a statement. The university 'will provide unconditional offers, streamlined admission procedures, and academic support to facilitate a seamless transition for interested students', it added. Harvard is ranked number one in US News and World Report's most recent list of the world's top universities, while HKUST is 105 out of more than 2,000 ranked. President Trump is furious at Harvard for rejecting his administration's push for oversight on admissions and hiring amid his claims the school is a hotbed of anti-Semitism and 'woke' liberal ideology. A US judge on Friday halted the administration's move to prevent Harvard from admitting foreign students after the university sued, calling the government's action unlawful. US homeland security secretary Kristi Noem said Thursday that the administration's decision would hold Harvard 'accountable for fostering violence, anti-Semitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus'. Beijing condemned the 'politicisation of educational cooperation', adding that the move by Washington would 'only harm the image and international standing of the United States'. Around 1,300 Chinese students are enrolled at Harvard, around a fifth of its international student body, according to university data. Hundreds of thousands more attend other US colleges and universities, long viewed by many in China as beacons of academic freedom and rigour.
