Lana Oconnell
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on international students, who have faced unique challenges and difficulties during lockdowns. While some international students chose to return to their home countries, others were unable or chose to remain in their host countries, navigating social isolation, financial instability, and uncertainty about their academic and immigration status. The pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of international students and the need for holistic support to address their diverse needs. This text explores the experiences of international students during lockdowns and the implications for their well-being, academic pursuits, and sense of belonging within their host countries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students going home during lockdown | International students have been able to go home during lockdown. For example, 54% of international students in Denmark chose to go home during the Covid-19 lockdown. |
| International students' experience during lockdown | International students often have a social network composed entirely of other international students. When their peers go home during lockdown, the remaining students can feel alone. |
| International students' mental health during lockdown | International students may experience social and psychological distress, including emotional distress, impaired sense of personal self-worth, loss of interpersonal contacts, and impaired task (academic) performance. |
| International students' access to mental health support | International students may not know where to find psychological counselling. |
| International students' financial situation during lockdown | International students may experience financial crises during lockdown, especially those from developing countries. |
| International students' ability to travel during studies | International students studying in the US may be able to travel during their studies, provided they take the appropriate steps to ensure smooth re-entry into the country. |
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What You'll Learn
International students' mental health
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health risk factors for college students, including international students. Travel restrictions and lockdown measures have left many international students stranded in their host countries, unable to return home. This has disrupted their social networks, which typically consist of other international students, leaving them feeling isolated and alone.
To address these challenges, educational institutions have implemented various measures to support the mental health and well-being of their international students. This includes providing constant communication and engagement, ensuring physical and mental health support, and creating a sense of community and normalcy within the restrictions. Some schools have organised activities such as art classes, international nights, and social events to foster connections and distract students from uncertainties.
It is crucial for staff members to be trained in identifying signs of poor mental health and providing early interventions. Initiatives that promote personal development, confidence-building, and soft skills can also empower students to navigate these challenging times. Additionally, peer support and maintaining friendships have been vital in overcoming loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging.
The pandemic has highlighted the importance of addressing the unique needs of international students and ensuring they feel supported and understood, regardless of cultural taboos surrounding mental health. By offering timely interventions and creating a supportive environment, institutions can help international students maintain their mental well-being during lockdowns and beyond.
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International students' social networks
During the Covid-19 lockdown, international students had to make a difficult decision: to go home or stay in their host country. In Denmark, 54% of international students chose to go home, leaving the remaining ones feeling lonely and vulnerable. Similarly, in New Zealand, when lockdown was announced, two Waikato schools had to find homes for 51 international students who could no longer live on school premises.
International students often rely on a social network composed entirely of other international students, and when many of those students returned home during lockdown, it left those who stayed without their support network. This was particularly challenging for students who had not yet had the opportunity to form relationships with local students. For example, Georgy Makhatadze, a PhD student in Denmark, found that communication with his peers all but disappeared during the first month of lockdown. He had to resort to online communication with friends and other Russians in Europe.
Social media and social network sites (SNS) can play a crucial role in helping international students stay connected and easing their feelings of loneliness. SNS can facilitate contact with people in the host country and initiate intercultural contact, which can enhance participation in new social groups. Studies have shown that Chinese students who used SNS often during their study abroad preparation had larger, more diverse social networks. SNS can also help international students seek advice from peer groups, easing their culture shock and helping them navigate life in a new country.
However, there can also be negative effects of SNS usage for international students. Students who use home country SNS may feel more psychologically alienated and maintain stronger ties to their home culture, which could hinder their ability to adapt to the host country. Additionally, online communication cannot replace in-person interaction, and the lack of non-verbal communication can lead to a lack of emotional fulfilment. Overall, while SNS can provide international students with a valuable support network, it is important to also seek in-person social connections and support when possible.
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International students' financial support
The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated lockdowns have had a significant impact on international students' emotional well-being, with many experiencing loneliness, anxiety, and psychological distress. International students in Copenhagen, for example, faced social distancing and isolation as their social networks, composed primarily of other international students, diminished when many returned home during the lockdown. Similarly, international students in Wuhan, China, endured a 76-day lockdown that caused emotional challenges and uncertainty about their academic progress.
During the pandemic, international students have sought financial and social support from various sources, including university administrations and local communities. Some universities and schools have had to find host families or accommodations for international students who could no longer live on campus due to lockdown restrictions. For instance, two Waikato Schools in New Zealand found host families for 51 international students during the lockdown.
To address the financial challenges faced by international students during the lockdown, some universities and organizations have provided financial support in the form of scholarships, emergency funds, or tuition waivers. For example, Harvard University in the United States, a popular destination for international students, offers financial aid packages to international students, although this has been threatened by the Trump administration's immigration policies.
In addition to financial aid, international students can also seek support through counselling services and mental health resources provided by universities and local communities. Some universities have recognized the importance of inclusivity and guidance in helping international students feel welcomed and supported during lockdowns.
Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns have disrupted the educational and financial plans of many international students, but support systems and accommodations have emerged to assist them during these challenging times.
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International students' travel documents
International students need to ensure they have the correct documentation in place when travelling to their country of study or returning home. The documents required will depend on the country of study and the student's nationality.
For example, international students travelling to the United States will need to obtain a student visa. To obtain a visa, students must attend an interview with a consular officer, who will determine their qualification for a student visa. The officer may request additional documents as evidence of certain things, such as:
- Standardized test scores required by the US school
- Intent to depart the US upon completion of the course
- Ability to pay all educational, living, and travel costs
Students will also need to pay a non-refundable visa application fee before their interview, and, if their visa is approved, they may need to pay a visa issuance fee.
Once a student has obtained their visa, they will need to present several documents upon arrival in the US, including:
- Passport (valid for at least six months beyond their period of stay)
- Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status" (signed by their DSO within the last year)
- Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record" (for M-1 students)
It is important to note that the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer may ask questions about the student's reason for travel and inspect their documents. Students should also be prepared for the officer to review their electronic devices, including social media, to ensure compliance with US laws and visa regulations.
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International students' employment
International students often have a social network composed entirely of other international students. During the lockdown, many international students went home, leaving those who remained feeling isolated and alone. This was particularly true for students in Copenhagen, where 65% of international students experienced loneliness and 45% did not know where to find psychological counselling.
International students in Denmark faced challenges in connecting with their Danish peers, with many reporting reluctance to meet outside of university. This resulted in a heavy reliance on online communication, which can be tiring and lacking in emotional fulfilment.
In Australia, the welfare of international students has been a growing concern, especially regarding the high cost of accommodation and evidence of workplace exploitation and wage theft. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, with many students losing their jobs or facing reduced hours due to the suspension of business in hospitality, retail, and other industries.
During the pandemic, the Australian government relaxed the cap on working hours for student visa holders employed at supermarkets, allowing them to work more than 40 hours every two weeks to address staff shortages and ensure essential services could continue.
Overall, the Covid-19 lockdowns and restrictions had a significant impact on the employment and wellbeing of international students, with many facing financial stress and vulnerability.
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Frequently asked questions
International students can go home during lockdown, but this depends on the lockdown restrictions in their host country and their country of origin. For example, during the Covid-19 lockdown in Denmark, 54% of international students chose to go home. However, some countries may have travel restrictions in place that prevent students from returning home.
International students face several challenges during lockdown, including social isolation, financial difficulties, and food insecurity. Many international students rely on part-time jobs in the catering and hospitality industry, which may not be available during lockdown. This can lead to financial strain and, in some cases, the need to turn to food banks for support.
Support for international students during lockdown varies depending on the country and the institution. In some cases, international students may be excluded from government relief programs and financial support offered to citizens and permanent residents. However, some universities have taken steps to provide support for international students, such as virtual social events and mental health resources.
