Hong Kong Open Universities to More International Students After US Ban on Harvard
Hong Kong has announced it will open its universities to more international students. This decision follows the recent US ban on Harvard enrolling foreign nationals. The move aims to support students affected by rising tensions between Washington and Beijing. These tensions have impacted thousands of foreign students and the revenue they bring to universities.
Hong Kong Open Universities Offer New Opportunities Amid US-Harvard Dispute
After a US judge temporarily blocked the ban following Harvard’s lawsuit, Hong Kong’s Education Secretary Christine Choi called on local universities to welcome “outstanding students from all over the world.” She urged schools to adopt flexible admissions policies and relax limits on foreign students. This is to attract more international talent.
For example, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has invited current Harvard international students and those accepted to Harvard to join them. HKUST offers unconditional admission, simplified applications, and academic support. This ensures students can continue their education smoothly without disruption.
The US government targeted Harvard, which ranks as the top university worldwide according to US News and World Report. President Donald Trump criticized Harvard for resisting his administration’s oversight and accused it of political bias. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also accused Harvard of fostering violence, antisemitism, and ties with the Chinese Communist Party. Harvard denied these claims, and Beijing condemned the US actions.
About 1,300 Chinese students study at Harvard, making up roughly 20% of its international student body. The ban threatens their futures. Therefore, Hong Kong’s plan aims to provide an alternative. It also helps the city maintain its status as a global education hub.
