International student-related policies during COVID-19: The responses from China and Australia

ABSTRACT

During the COVID-19 pandemic, international higher education underwent significant changes. To maintain the operation of international education and ensure the continuity of students' education, the Chinese and Australian governments have introduced a set of emergency policies. This study unpacks the policies that relate to Chinese students enrolled in Australian universities. It also summarises the unique modes built in these two contexts and critically identifies their similarities and distinctions. Based on these findings, it proposes the concept, co-creation, and highlights the trend in international education. It suggests that a virtual geographical space in international education has emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the immobility of students is accepted. The establishment of the space requires collaborative efforts from governments, social organisations, and universities. Hence, the future of higher education is more about innovation than recovery. © 2022, IGI Global.