Harvard ban on international students: Here is how Hong Kong is stepping up with support
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On May 22, 2025, the Trump administration intensified its crackdown on elite universities by revoking Harvard University’s certification to host international students. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) cited non-compliance with federal regulations and accused Harvard of fostering antisemitism and allowing undue foreign influence. This unprecedented move under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) immediately put the visa status of nearly 6,800 international students at risk, triggering legal action and global concern.Harvard swiftly filed a lawsuit, calling the action unconstitutional and politically motivated. A U.S. District Court responded with an emergency injunction, temporarily halting enforcement and allowing affected students to remain in the U.S. for now.Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s announcement reverberated across the global academic community, with particular concern in countries like India, where 788 students and scholars are currently enrolled at Harvard. The decision has raised serious concerns about academic freedom, the stability of international educational ties, and the broader implications for the future of higher education in the United States.In response, Hong Kong’s Education Bureau has taken immediate action. In a recent statement, the Bureau confirmed it has urged universities across the territory to introduce facilitation measures for eligible students, ensuring their legitimate rights and interests are protected. It also emphasized its intent to attract top global talent and reinforce Hong Kong’s standing as an international education hub.The Bureau has also reached out to the Harvard Club of Hong Kong to offer guidance and potential academic alternatives for students who had secured offers from Harvard before the ban was enacted. Here is what different universities in Hong Kong are doing to extend their support and provide alternatives to international students stuck in the US.
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
Leading the charge among local institutions is the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), which announced an open invitation to international undergraduate and postgraduate students affected by the Harvard policy.HKUST has promised unconditional offers, streamlined admission procedures, and dedicated academic support to ensure a smooth transition. The initiative reflects not only institutional compassion but also strategic foresight — capitalizing on global disruptions to enhance the university’s international profile.Ranked among Asia’s top 10 universities and 47th globally according to QS World University Rankings 2025, HKUST is known for its strengths in science, engineering, business, and technology. The university welcomes international students into programs such as Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Science, and Global Business.
City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
To support displaced Harvard students, City University of Hong Kong (CityU) is stepping up with a robust academic safety net. The university is offering flexible transfer pathways and unique co-supervision arrangements for PhD candidates—allowing them to continue their research under joint guidance with their original advisors.Ranked at number 62 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, CityU is a rising star in innovation and interdisciplinary education. Its undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Computer Science, Media and Communication, Engineering, and Law continue to attract top international talent, making it an ideal alternative destination for students seeking academic continuity and world-class mentorship in uncertain times.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is offering displaced students from Harvard and other top U.S. institutions the opportunity to transfer directly into its academic programs. The university provides full recognition of prior studies, dedicated advisors, and personalised support to help students navigate the transition smoothly. Known for its strong focus on applied research and close industry connections, PolyU delivers practical education in fields like Design, Hotel and Tourism Management, Engineering, and Logistics. Ranked 57th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, PolyU continues to attract international students seeking both academic rigor and career-oriented learning.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is responding proactively to the challenges faced by international scholars amid recent upheavals in U.S. higher education. The institution is focusing on increasing research funding and creating new scholarship opportunities to support displaced students and researchers.CUHK offers a broad selection of more than 80 undergraduate and postgraduate programs conducted in English, covering fields such as Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, and Economics. With a strong reputation in medicine, business, social sciences, and the humanities, CUHK is recognised as a prominent academic center. It is currently ranked 36th worldwide and 4th in Asia in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) is taking decisive steps to provide tailored support for international students affected by recent shifts in U.S. higher education. By offering individualised assistance, the university aims to minimise disruptions and help students seamlessly continue their academic journeys.Known for its strong commitment to liberal arts education and global engagement, HKBU attracts a diverse international community through its distinguished programs such as Journalism, Creative Writing, International Studies, and Business Analytics. The university currently ranks among the top 300 institutions globally and among top 50 Asian institutions as per the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Why Hong Kong is an appealing alternative
Hong Kong, with a population of 7.5 million and a legacy as a British colony, has five universities in the global top 100, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025. While political tensions in recent years have stirred debate about academic freedom, the city continues to offer world-class infrastructure, English-medium instruction, and strong research funding — making it a compelling option for students seeking continuity and quality in their education.The city’s unique position between East and West also allows it to serve as a cultural and academic bridge, particularly for students from Asia affected by increasingly restrictive U.S. policies.This is not just crisis control — it’s a calculated pivot. Hong Kong’s quick action positions its universities as globally minded institutions ready to absorb talent displaced by geopolitical shifts. By facilitating transfers and simplifying admissions, the city could deepen its appeal among international students long after the headlines fade.
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