The number of international students who choose to study in China continues to grow. With over 490,000 international students, the country is nearly meeting its 2020 target of attracting half a million international students and reaching the top position as Asia's most popular education destination. Is the world's top source of international students becoming the leading destination for them?

Professor Shi Anbin of Tsinghua University thinks the sudden surge of international students in recent years is explained by China's rise as a global power.

"Particularly I think the implementation of (the) Belt and Road Initiative to attract more students from the outside world, particularly from the rest which is non-Western countries," said Professor Shi. "So, this is actually an aim that Chinese educational institution wants to achieve to have what we call 'globalized education'."

Professor James Rae of California State University is also impressed by the sheer number of overseas students at Peking University, but more so by the dramatic rate of increase over the past 10 years. Rae thinks that the mutual learning of culture and language with international students will help China build long term relationships for commerce and diplomacy.

Dr. Aravind Yelery of HSBC Business School explained that China is the "epicenter" of attraction because of its phenomenal growth rate, a booming economy, as well as the opportunity it presents.

Comparing to higher institutes in India, Dr. Yelery asserted that Chinese universities are ranked much higher globally. Additionally, Chinese universities have more established research systems, publications, many high-tech research labs, and other facilities.

Professor Shi pointed out that compare to the UK and U.S., China's education industry is still at an early stage, with the language being the main barrier. Currently, most courses for international students are taught in English, otherwise, demand would be too low. While he acknowledged the benefits of hosting international students, Shi stated that he worries about "cultural shock" and potential conflicts.

Professor Shi also mentioned China's guest friendly culture that tailors the courses to the needs of international students. Lifting the compulsory study of Marxism for international students is only one example. Professor Rae, however, held that some Western students might be more independent and do not appreciate being handled this way, hence triggering cross-culture tension.

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