An overseas education consultant in Hong Kong said on Friday some students are delaying plans to attend boarding schools in the United States that often serve as feeder schools to Harvard University.

Her comments came after Donald Trump's administration revoked Harvard's ability to enroll foreign nationals, which make up around 27 percent of the student body.

Julianna Yau, founder and director of Ampla Education, told RTHK that her centre received two enquiries about the announcement so far.

"We have some students who are planning to go to the United States in the next few years who are expressing some concerns," she said.

"So they're actually planning to go to boarding schools first, but now they might be postponing their plans.

"So at least for our students, usually they wouldn't just be applying to the United States on their own.

"They would also apply to the other countries like Canada and UK.

"I think that would be a safer choice – to apply to a few extra universities."

Yau added that applicants should continue with their Harvard application preparations but also come up with backup plans.

Another education consultant, Samuel Chan, said he received 20 requests for help from current and prospective Harvard students and their parents.

They expressed worries about potential curriculum misalignment when transferring to other institutions and a possible reluctance on the part of employers with government contracts to hire graduates from Harvard.

Meanwhile, the University of Science and Technology (HKUST) said it welcomes international Harvard students to transfer or enroll in its degree programmes.

In a statement, HKUST said it will provide "unconditional offers, streamlined admission procedures and academic support" to make the transition seamless for interested students.

"We are prepared to welcome Harvard students into our community, offering them the resources and vibrant environment needed to thrive in their fields," said HKUST provost Guo Yike.

In a Facebook post, Secretary for Education Christine Choi said she contacted the Harvard Club of Hong Kong to offer support for students admitted to the renowned university.

Choi called on all local universities to "provide accommodating measures for eligible students and protect their legitimate rights and interests".

She said Hong Kong institutions have capitalised on the relaxed caps on non-local student enrollment to attract outstanding international students and strengthen the "Study in Hong Kong" brand.

Speaking at a regular press briefing in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China has always opposed the politicisation of education cooperation, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Mao said the relevant practices of the US side will only damage its image and international credibility, adding that China will firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students and scholars overseas.
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Last updated: 2025-05-23 HKT 19:05