Some Canadian and Hong Kong schools are stepping up to help students with F-1 visas after the Trump administration decided to suspend Harvard University’s certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Nearly 6,800 international students, including more than 700 Indian students are now in danger of being compelled to transfer or maybe deported as a result of the decision.
Canadian Universities Extend Support
- Tetr College of Business: For exiled Harvard students, Tetr College of Business in Canada has started a unique $10 million scholarship program. Accepted undergraduates in August 2025 will be eligible for full tuition subsidies totaling about $200,000. The college offers two programs, Science and Artificial Intelligence and Management and Technology.
Hong Kong Universities Open Doors
Hong Kong’s Education Bureau has advised all universities to support affected students. Here’s what different universities are doing:
- In addition to offering expedited admissions, academic credit transfers, visa help, and housing support, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has made unconditional offers to exiled Harvard students.
- City University of Hong Kong (CityU): By providing transfer chances and co-supervision agreements with their initial PhD supervisors, CityU is helping overseas students, including PhD candidates, maintain their academic continuity.
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK): CUHK is looking into further research funding to help scholars looking for possibilities outside of the US as part of its commitment to drawing top students from around the world.
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) offers complete acceptance, specific contact information, and individualized counselling to students who have been accepted or enrolled at Harvard and other esteemed US universities.
- Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU): HKBU restates its dedication to internationalization and provides help to displaced international students who decide to enroll, with the promise of support dependent on each student’s unique situation.
Institutions all across the world have stepped in to support the impacted students as a result of the US government’s decision, which has caused international alarm. Hong Kong’s action shows its dedication to preserving its standing as a center for international education. Students are urged to look into these options when the circumstances change so they can carry on with their academics with the least amount of disruption.
