In a bold response to the US government's recent ban on Harvard enrolling international students–and its directive for current students to transfer–the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) opened its doors to Harvard's global cohort.
On May 23, HKUST announced unconditional admission for all international undergraduates and postgraduates currently studying at Harvard, plus those holding offers. The university has pledged to accelerate application reviews, streamline credit transfers, and roll out tailored support–from visa assistance to housing solutions. A dedicated transition task force will guide students step by step.
Hong Kong Secretary for Education Dr Choi Yuk-lin welcomed the initiative, encouraging top talent worldwide to consider the Hong Kong region as a study destination. She noted that the Education Bureau is working with the Harvard Club of Hong Kong to smooth admissions and student services.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning also weighed in, calling China-US educational cooperation 'mutually beneficial' and opposing any politicization of academic exchange. She warned that restricting scholars abroad could damage the US's international standing and reaffirmed China's commitment to protecting the rights of its students overseas.
As global citizens watch closely, HKUST's move highlights how regional universities can transform policy disruptions into opportunities–fueling a new wave of cross-border learning and innovation.
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HKUST welcomes Harvard's international students following US ban
cgtn.com
