China was the country where the pandemic began. Ironically, it has a zero-COVID policy that restricts foreigners from entering the country. Despite the strict measures to control and contain the virus, several Chinese provinces are still going through a tough time with the Delta variant. The situation seems bleak for international students, who are desperate to resume their education.
Sadly, there is no clear indication about the impending reopening of the country’s borders. There is no clarity about how long the zero-COVID policies of China may last. Experts suggest that the country may have strict quarantine requirements for much of 2022. The big question is about the impact this policy will have on international students in the long run.
According to China’s education ministry, the country had nearly 500,000 international students in 2018, with more than half of these coming from Asia. A majority of them are from South Korea. China has granted visas to South Korean students, while others are still waiting to be allowed back. The border closures have locked them out for over a year since the pandemic.
While international students are not happy with the stance of the country, Chinese government officials state that the prevention and control measures implemented there are scientific, professional, and appropriate. On the other hand, students are expressing frustrations about the lack of information and support by Chinese universities over their return.
China International Student Union (CISU), an independent body representing international students studying in Chinese universities, seeks a clear date of return from the officials. Likewise, international students across Asia have been campaigning for China’s borders to reopen to them. They reiterate that they are willing to do their bit by getting vaccinated and following the quarantine guidelines issued by the government.
As international students are ready to abide by the COVID-19 protocols, they want to be allowed back in China to continue with their study abroad plans. Better things seem to be on the horizon, as a recent report by The South China Morning Post stated that two Chinese universities could permit international students to return to their campus in the foreseeable future. New York University Shanghai and Duke Kunshan University have reportedly sent emails signalling an impending return of students for next semester. But an official announcement on the reopening of China’s borders to international students is yet to come.
If you are considering studying abroad why don’t you discuss your prospects and opportunities with experts at Lurnable’s dedicated study abroad counselling division LurnPathways?
