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The Latest on China's Visa
Challenge
It's no secret that many Chinese students have encountered problems when applying for U.S. visas. But officials from both nations told IEF recently in Beijing that the situation is improving.
IEF arranged for U.S. recruiters to meet with Sino-U.S. officials and discuss the current visa situation during last fall's China International Education Exhibition. The group was told that more than half the student visa applications are being approved in Beijing and Shanghai, and that all student applications were being adjudicated on a case-by-case basis.
All Levels, All Types of Schools
What about the perception that visas are only being accepted for high-level graduate programs? Officials from both countries said it simply isn't true. They reported that visas are being granted for all academic levels and for every type of educational institution.
In fact, the most recent "Open Doors Report" from the Institute of International Education found more than 2,500 Chinese students enrolled in U.S. community colleges last year. All indications show that enrollment will increase at all types of institutions over the next few years.
Students Lack Information
Officials say Chinese students may be unintentionally hurting their chances for success. Many lack accurate resources about the U.S. educational system and visa application process. As a result, these students aren't preparing themselves properly.
It's clear from the thousands attending China's fall fair that many students really do need to learn a lot more about our system.
IEF is striving to ensure Chinese students get the resources they need. Recent initiatives have included a Chinese-language Web site and college directory series, as well as a student recruitment fair program. To learn more,
contact us or call 626-965-1995.
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