US Academics’ Hong Kong Job Applications Surge Amid Trump’s Policies: A Skeptical Look
In 2025, job applications from US academics to Hong Kong saw a significant surge, increasing by 55%, coinciding with a period of political tension. This rise occurred as the Trump administration targeted US universities, reducing federal research funding and revoking foreign student visas. Other English and Chinese-language markets also saw increases, with the UK, Australia, and Ireland experiencing notable growth in applications as well. Hong Kong universities welcomed affected international students, offering expedited enrollment processes, a response that further contributed to the influx.
John Q. Hosedrinker