Visas, Opportunities, and Challenges: Future of U.S.-China Educational Exch

How have U.S. and Chinese policies toward student mobility evolved in recent years, and what trends are emerging for 2026 and beyond? What challenges do international students face today regarding visas, security screening, and post-graduation opportunities? What pathways and programs are emerging for American students to study, intern, and conduct research in China?

Educational exchange has long connected students, scholars, and universities in the U.S. and China, building bridges of understanding and opportunity. Yet today, shifting geopolitics, visa challenges, and security concerns are reshaping what studying across borders looks like.

This panel brings together experts, advisors, and students to explore how U.S.–China education links are evolving—and what these changes mean for you. Learn about the latest visa updates, post-graduation options, and pathways for global study and careers, and hear real insights on navigating uncertainty in an increasingly complex world. Join us to ask questions, share experiences, and discover how learning across borders continues to open doors.

4:00-5:30pm Wednesday November 19, 2025

Social and Behavioral Sciences Gateway Room 1517, University of California Irvine

Moderator:

o Ann Tang, Long U.S.–China Institute

Panelists:

o Lizhou Wang, Wasada University – US-China education exchange trends

o Allen Tsai, D&T Law – immigration law, F1/H1B1 visa trends

o Nina Yari Castro, Study Abroad Center – China program pathways and experience

o Yuzhe (Thomas) Wang, Chinese Union UCI – Student experience and advocacy

o Isaac Zhang, Chinese Students and Scholars Association at UCI – Student experience and entrepreneurship

A reception of light refreshments will immediately follow.

Parking Information:

A valid parking permit is required at all times when parking on campus, including the Social Sciences Parking Structure. Visitors can purchase a permit through the PARKbyPLATE system or at other kiosks and dispensers. We highly suggest purchasing your parking permit in advance.

For this eventI we recommend parking in the Social Sciences Parking Structure (4502 Campus Dr, Irvine, CA 92617).

The code for the Social Sciences Parking Structure is 7L222. You must have a valid parking permit or pay for parking using this system to park in the structure.

Co-sponsors: UCI Office of Global Engagement; UCI International Center; UCI Study Abroad Center

** 1 ticket per person, please have all who wish to attend sign up separately, thank you!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Social & Behavioral Sciences Gateway, 214 Pereira Drive, Irvine, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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