ITT – US, UK and Australia have started to open their doors to international students after being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic since the fall semester.
US: Direct learning
According to the New York Times, US currently does not require international students to get vaccinated before entering the country, but a negative test result is required within 72 hours of departure. Since the fall semester, most universities in the US have allowed the reopening of face-to-face courses, ending the period of having to study completely online for more than a year.
Many schools will actively allow students to vaccinate, but some require students to prepare a “vaccine passport” in advance to go to the lecture hall. Students are advised to contact the school’s student affairs department for up-to-date information. Reducing tuition fees is also a way to attract international students in the “post-COVID-19” period of many universities. For example, Clinton College announced that it will reduce tuition fees for the fall 2021 semester for international students from other countries.
As one of the countries that “normalize” the “industry” of studying abroad early in the world, the US has further consolidated its position as the number one destination in the eyes of international students. It is forecasted that in the coming fall semester, the number of students entering the US directly will increase by double digits compared to the same period in 2020.
Australia: First time opening the border to international students
In mid-June 2021, South Australia officially became the first state approved by the federal government to “open up” its borders to international students. According to Sky News, South Australian Premier Steven Marshall thinks this is an important milestone to reopen the path for international students to return to this state in particular and Australia in general.
Accordingly, the state of South Australia will allow a limited number of international students who have been vaccinated to enter. Upon arrival, students will be isolated and monitored for health before being able to resume normal activities in South Australia. The plan will be implemented gradually, starting from the end of June 2021.
Universities in Australia think this is a positive sign after nearly 2 years Australia completely “banned” international students. Australia’s resolute refusal to allow international students to enter in recent years has also caused many young people to change their destinations to other competitive markets such as the US, Canada, and Europe.
UK: Get free vaccinations
With one of the world’s leading vaccination rates (around 46%), UK makes it an ideal destination for international students in the fall semester.
According to research by education organization QS, 47% of international students around the world are leaning towards the UK in the top study abroad markets. The reason is because of the high vaccination rate.
In addition, many policies to support international students continue to be expanded. For example, after being isolated in the UK, students can apply for free injections. In the meantime, students can continue to support health monitoring at many medical facilities.