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Latest Updates on COVID-19 for International Students

We understand this is a really concerning time for everyone, and it has probably been a very challenging time for you as a student. But remember, we are in this together. As a student who’s studying abroad, you’re sure to be concerned about the news on COVID-19. As a global education consultancy, we care for our student’s health and welfare as much as we care for the success of their future. We have compiled the necessary information based on the recent updates from the top study destinations: Australia, UK, New Zealand and USA. So here’s a rundown on the latest updates on COVID-19 for international students studying abroad.

 

Australia 

The Government of Australia has committed to ensuring the highest level of education, support and care are readily accessible to the international students, whether arriving to or already in Australia.  

Travel

  • Australia’s borders have been closed from the 27th of March. This means that travelling to and from Australia is not permitted.
  • Take some time to catch up with friends and family back home. For travel updates, monitor www.smartraveller.gov.au. For more information, visit the social media accounts of the closest Australian diplomatic mission.
  • Apply for a new student Visa and receive a new Confirmation of Enrolment.

Universities

  • Australian Universities are taking measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. International students are asked to stay at home for this reason.
  • The Australian National University has announced no more face-to-face teaching. They have moved to remote working, teaching, research and studying across the university. This arrangement has begun from Thursday 26 March until Saturday 27 June. 
  • The Australian universities are planning to implement emergency plans, trying to restrict face-to-face teaching using the online platforms for lecture and tutorial. 
  • They are also assessing whether practical classes and laboratory sessions need to be amended or rescheduled.

For Helpline: 1300 555 135

 

 

United Kingdom

According to the latest update, students are advised on staying at home to reduce the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19). Even if you don’t have symptoms, the government suggests social distancing to reduce the spread of the virus for the students. Not just students, everybody is asked to stay at home and only go out when it is essential to do so. For instance, to buy food, groceries or medicines.

Travel

  • If you are planning to travel abroad, please read the government’s Foreign Travel Advice relevant to the country you are visiting.
  • With information published by the Foreign Office on current travel advice, you can be up to date on the latest travel safety regulations.
  • Extension of Visas for students is confirmed. Apply and receive a new Confirmation of Enrolment. 

Universities

Student helpline: +4420 7788 9214

 

 

New Zealand

With alert level 4 being issued in the country. The New Zealand government has requested support from their people. Everyone must stay at their house, except the ones providing essential services, and physical contact is restricted to only those you live with.

Travel

  • University students are prohibited from travelling. There can be a compromise in the case of repatriation flights.
  • Returning residents of New Zealand and citizens must isolate themselves for 14 days upon their arrival.
  • The country has closed borders to almost all travelers (non-residents and non-New Zealand citizens) from 23:59 on Thursday, the 19th of March 2020.

Universities

  • Universities in New Zealand such as the University of Auckland, Victoria University of Wellington and other educational institutions have paused the classroom teaching method. 
  • Online teaching for the universities is expected to start from 30th March, Monday.
  • It is recommended to also contact your university at the earliest to discuss your possible study options.

 

Helpline: 0800 779 997 

 

 

The United States of America

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that international students can take online classes. This will also not affect visa statuses. Also, NAFSA Association of International Students has requested the Departments of Homeland Security to publish a special student relief. 

Travel

  • The U.S. government has implemented new travel restrictions for 28 European countries among the global COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Most of the Universities are considering requests from students who are from locations listed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for COVID-19, and those from travel-ban countries, to remain in campus housing.

Universities

  • California State University has started to facilitate the transition of all operations – including instruction – to a virtual method and lower the campus population of students and employees.
  • The University of Hartford has postponed all campus tours and spring events until further announcement.

 

CDC Helpline: 800-232-4636

 

 

Canada

The Federal government has taken measures to help ease the financial burden off of students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has implemented a moratorium on student loans for six months with no interest.

Travel

  • Anyone entering Canada will be forced to enter a mandatory 14-day quarantine as of March 26.
  • The country has closed its borders to the majority of foreign nationals.

Universities

  • Contingency plans are being developed, in Universities in Canada, to hold lectures via video conferences. Exams are also administered remotely.
  • Based on the institutional priority, the educational institutions have adapted online classes from March 20th to 30th.

 

Centre for Canadian International Student Services (CCISS) Helpline: 1-855-484-1881

 

Take this time to pause, plan and prepare for the future because things will settle down. And when it does, you can start building your dream career. If you require guidance regarding anything, please feel free to contact us. We are here to help you through this period and after.

 

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