UK universities urged to do more to integrate Chinese students
Universities in the UK are being urged to do more to integrate Chinese students, as a new report highlights the challenges facing this important demographic.
The study from the Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi) argues that despite their financial contribution, Chinese students often feel undervalued and isolated.
Hepi says: "UK universities are highly reliant on Chinese students for financial stability, with Chinese international students paying £2.3 billion a year in fees.
"But there is a risk that the UK will become less popular with students from China, with the number of Chinese applicants dropping by 4% in 2022."
English language proficiency
One of the key challenges identified in the report is English language proficiency.
While their IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores may be high, many Chinese students struggle with spoken English, particularly in academic and social settings.
The study reveals that English language proficiency tends to be lower among Chinese students than students from other developing economies, such as Malaysia and India.
The issue is that the scores do not accurately reflect language competencies, particularly spoken English, among Chinese students.
There's a fear that high scores can be met through intensive and methodical English language drilling practice.
Support with UCAS applications
Hepi says: "Some Chinese applicants are spending more than £10,000 to pay for support with UCAS applications.
"English language proficiency is being further deprioritised by the Chinese government."
The report suggests that universities should implement more robust assessments for spoken English, such as AI-powered online interviews and provide ongoing language support.
Another issue is the uneven distribution across UK institutions of Chinese students.
It says that some institutions have more than 15,000 students from China - while others have less than 10.
Hepi says: "This is one cause of acute social clustering, where students mostly socialise with others from China."
Digital divide for Chinese students
The digital divide is another significant barrier with Chinese students often relying heavily on Chinese apps and platforms, such as WeChat and Little Red Book.
This can hinder their use UK apps and platforms and Hepi says training is needed to help students navigate them.
Hepi also says: "International students would like more targeted career support from their universities: most (almost 80%) have never received support.
"Chinese students find it more difficult than international students from elsewhere to find employment.
"Students from China make up 22% of all international students in the UK but just 10% of graduate employees."
Specific needs of Chinese students
The report urges universities to tailor career support services to the specific needs of Chinese students, including offering practical work experience and internships opportunities.
The report concludes by emphasising the need for a more holistic approach to the integration of Chinese students.
There's also an admission: "Some Chinese students feel like they are being treated as revenue sources rather than as valued members of the community."
Hepi says that by addressing these challenges, universities in the UK can create a more welcoming and supportive environment for Chinese students and strengthen their global reputation.
Student landlords can play a crucial role
Simon Thompson, the managing director of Accommodation for Students, said: "It's a worry that the Hepi report highlights that some Chinese students feel treated as 'revenue sources rather than valued members of the community'.
"For this reason, UK student landlords can play a crucial role by fostering a welcoming environment, offering support and respecting cultural differences.
"I believe that landlords can enhance the experience of Chinese students."
He added: "The Chinese student cohort is undoubtedly huge and crucial to the financing of many universities and we all should work together to ensure these overseas students enjoy their studies in the UK."
