Hong Kong has announced plans to open its universities to more international students, particularly those impacted by the U.S. government’s recent move to block Harvard University from enrolling foreign nationals. The decision comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing over trade and geopolitical issues.
On Thursday, the Trump administration barred Harvard from admitting overseas students, a move temporarily halted by a U.S. judge after the university filed a lawsuit. The policy has cast uncertainty over the futures of thousands of international students and the significant revenue they contribute to U.S. institutions.
In response, Hong Kong’s Education Secretary Christine Choi urged local universities to accommodate affected students. “For international students impacted by the U.S. admission policy, the Education Bureau has called on all Hong Kong universities to provide facilitation measures for eligible candidates,” Choi said in a statement. She noted that institutions are relaxing enrollment caps for foreign students to attract more talent.
HKUST Offers Fast-Track Admissions to Harvard Students
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) announced on Friday that it would welcome current Harvard students and admitted applicants to transfer. “HKUST is extending this opportunity to ensure talented students can pursue their education without disruption,” the university said. It pledged unconditional offers, streamlined admissions, and academic support for a smooth transition.
Harvard, ranked first globally by U.S. News & World Report, contrasts with HKUST’s position at 105th. The Trump administration’s action follows President Donald Trump’s accusations that Harvard fosters anti-Semitism and liberal ideology while resisting federal oversight.
A U.S. judge temporarily blocked the ban on Friday, ruling the government’s action unlawful. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the policy, alleging Harvard had allowed “violence, anti-Semitism, and coordination with the Chinese Communist Party” on campus.
China condemned the move as a politicization of education, warning it would damage America’s global reputation. Approximately 1,300 Chinese students attend Harvard, accounting for a fifth of its international cohort. Hundreds of thousands more study across the U.S., long regarded in China as a hub for academic excellence.