After Trump's ban, Hong Kong University announces 'unconditional offers' for Harvard foreign students

After the US government's move this week to block Harvard University from enrolling foreign nationals, a university in Hong Kong has promised "unconditional offers" for international students.

According to Newsweek, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) said it would help "ensure a smooth transition" for students unable to enrol for the next school year. The university will prioritise expedited admissions, credit transfers, and provide support, including visa assistance and housing, to students, HKUST said.

Taking to X, HKUST said, "In light of global academic shifts, HKUST is extending an open invitation to international students currently enrolled at, or holding confirmed offers from, Harvard University to continue their academic journey with us. This initiative comes in response to evolving global academic landscapes and reinforces HKUST’s commitment to fostering a diverse, world-class learning environment."

[ HKUST Opens Doors to Harvard Students Amid Global Academic Shifts ]In light of global academic shifts, HKUST is extending an open invitation to international students currently enrolled at, or holding confirmed offers from, Harvard University to continue their academic pic.twitter.com/N7bsLFuDjk
HKUST (@hkust) May 23, 2025

"The university will provide unconditional offers, streamlined admission procedures, and academic support to facilitate a seamless transition for interested students," it added.

HKUST's offer comes after the Chinese government criticised the US government for stopping the enrollment of foreign students and student exchange programmes at Harvard University. More than 1,000 Chinese students currently attend the Ivy League school, the Newsweek reported.

Announcing the move on Thursday, the US Department of Homeland Security said that Harvard had created an unsafe campus environment by allowing "anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators" to harass and assault Jewish students on campus and accused Harvard of coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party, saying it hosted and trained members of a Chinese paramilitary group as recently as last year.

Harvard University, on the other hand, called the US Government's move to ban foreign students "unlawful". In a statement, Harvard spokesperson Jason Newton said, "We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard's ability to host international students and scholars, who hail from more than 140 countries and enrich the University - and this nation - immeasurably."

Harvard is also suing the Trump administration against its decision to revoke its eligibility to enrol international students. "As we pursue legal remedies, we will do everything in our power to support our students and scholars," the university said.