The Biden administration is pushing for the continued internationalisation of higher education in the US, a government official has suggested, stating that international education remains a linchpin for driving innovation and economic prosperity.

The US Department of State has adjusted its study visa guidance for consular officers who approve visas for prospective international students around intent to leave – a move that stakeholders have welcomed.

Select international students intending to arrive in the US for studies in 2021 will be eligible for interview waivers, the government has said.

New international student enrolments fell 43% in fall 2020, a survey has revealed, while the Open Doors 2020 report has shown that total international students in the US has declined for the first time in more than a decade.

The Stevens Initiative has announced 18 grants for virtual exchange programs to ensure students can develop cross-cultural skills during the pandemic.

The US has announced that travellers from the Schengen area, the UK and Ireland may be allowed into the country, but suspensions for J-1 holders remain.

NAFSA has requested the country's Department of State to put video conferencing interviews in place of in-person requirements.

International students across Germany are choosing whether to return home or remain in the country as the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread. Institutions are also working to ensure students are healthy as social distancing becomes the norm.