Previously, we shared how US President Donald Trump banned Harvard University in Massachusetts from enrolling international students, which also affects current foreign students. Simply put, these students must transfer elsewhere or lose their legal status in the US.
Since then, Harvard has responded by filing a complaint and a motion for a temporary restraining order, with the latter recently granted by the US Federal Court in Boston. This means that the US government’s revocation is not presently in effect, pending further legal action.
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offer unconditional admission to all Harvard foreign students affected by the Trump ban
US President, Donald Trump (left)
Well, amidst the chaos, a university in Hong Kong has swooped in and taken the opportunity to potentially ‘snatch’ these Harvard foreign students, some of the world’s brightest prospects no less, by offering them unconditional admission.
In a statement, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) extended an open invitation to “international undergraduate and postgraduate students currently enrolled at Harvard University” to continue their academic pursuits at HKUST.
The invitation also extends to “those holding confirmed offers for Harvard degree programmes”. HKUST said that the initiative comes in response to “evolving global academic landscapes” and reinforces the university’s commitment to “fostering a diverse, world-class learning environment”.
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HKUST asserted,
“As a leading international institution ranked among the top universities globally, HKUST is extending this opportunity to ensure talented students can pursue their educational goals without disruption.
“The university will provide unconditional offers, streamlined admission procedures, and academic support to facilitate a seamless transition for interested students.”
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Besides that, HKUST also gave reasons for Harvard foreign students affected by the Trump ban to enrol in the university instead, which include how HKUST is:
- Top 50 Global Rankings (QS World University Rankings 2025)
- Top 2 in the World in the 2025 Times Higher Education Most International University ranking
- Leader in AI – Data Science and Artificial Intelligence ranks Top 20 in the world, & 1st in Hong Kong (QS subject ranking 2025)
- Interdisciplinary programs in science, engineering, business, humanities, and social science
- A dynamic campus in Hong Kong, a gateway to Asia’s innovation ecosystems
- Strategic hub in Hong Kong, bridging Asia and the world
So, what do you guys think of the Trump ban and the cheeky unconditional invitation by HKUST in response? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
