08.12.2025 China Introduces Major TNE Reforms to Boost International Education Partnerships

China has unveiled sweeping reforms to its transnational education (TNE) policies, raising hopes among global universities for more flexible and transparent cooperation opportunities. The Ministry of Education recently presented the updated framework in briefings to international diplomatic missions and Chinese universities, signalling China’s intention to significantly expand TNE enrollments.

China has introduced significant updates to its transnational education (TNE) policy, aiming to make cooperation with international universities more flexible, transparent, and efficient. The new framework lifts the previous enrollment cap for Joint Education Institutes and Programs, supports more diverse study models, and allows institutions to submit multiple applications per approval cycle.

To improve clarity, the Ministry of Education is providing standardised agreements, nationwide briefings, and faster processing times—promising decisions within 45 working days. A new digital platform with AI-supported partner matching will further streamline collaboration.

Although not yet formally published, the reforms are already in effect and have led to almost 160 new TNE approvals in 2025. The UK currently leads in new partnerships, but many other countries across Europe, Asia, and Australia are also expanding cooperation with Chinese universities.

International partners must still meet regulatory requirements, including integration of a Chinese party representative and adherence to curriculum rules. Overall, the reforms signal China’s commitment to strengthening high-quality international education and expanding TNE enrolments in the coming years.

News by: Abhishek Nair, The Pie News

Click here to read the full news article.