Core Viewpoint - The recent suspension of Harvard University's ability to enroll international students by the Trump administration has created uncertainty for Chinese students considering studying in the U.S., leading many to explore alternative destinations like Hong Kong [1][4]. Group 1: U.S. Education Landscape - The U.S. remains a top destination for international students, with 16 of the top 50 universities in the 2025 QS World University Rankings located there [3]. - Acceptance rates for top U.S. universities have been gradually increasing, with the acceptance rate for the top 30 schools rising from 63% in 2020 to 77% in 2024 [3]. - The number of Chinese students applying for doctoral programs in the U.S. has significantly increased, from 6.5% in 2021 to 13.28% in 2024 [3]. Group 2: Shift to Hong Kong - Hong Kong has become an attractive alternative for Chinese students due to its high-quality education and lower economic costs compared to the U.S. [6][7]. - The number of mainland students studying in Hong Kong surged by 32% in 2023, totaling 62,079 students [6]. - Hong Kong universities are actively recruiting students from Harvard, offering unconditional admissions and support for transfer processes [5][6]. Group 3: Factors Influencing Student Choices - The economic burden of studying in the U.S. is significant, with costs ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 RMB annually, while studying in Asia is generally cheaper by about half [8]. - The IANG visa policy in Hong Kong allows non-local graduates to stay and work in Hong Kong for two years post-graduation, increasing its appeal [8]. - The Greater Bay Area provides ample employment opportunities for graduates, particularly in international schools, enhancing the attractiveness of studying in Hong Kong [9].