BANGKOK, THAILAND – The government has ordered universities to explain how they take in foreign students, targeting possible visa abuse and weak academic entry rules.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation – known as MHESI – has been tasked with a sweeping investigation. Universities must reveal exactly how they admit foreign students into degree and non-degree programmes.
Authorities check every step from enrollment to visa docs
Officials are reviewing the entire pipeline from student enrollment to visa application paperwork. They want to find weak spots that could allow people to misuse education visas.
The probe was sparked by media reports questioning whether some universities followed required academic standards when taking in foreign students.
The investigation will be conducted impartially. The government wants to close loopholes that could be used for personal gain or damage trust in the higher education system.
said Deputy Government Spokesperson Patdarasm Thongsaluaykorn on August 6.
Universities face legal heat if rules were broken
Any university that has broken laws, regulations or academic standards can expect legal action. The government has vowed not to let violations slide.
Immigration authorities are also involved. They review visa applications together with documents from each educational institution.
Short courses already under tighter rules
Last year MHESI imposed stricter rules for short-term courses. The aim was to stop foreigners using such programmes as a cover to work illegally in Thailand while posing as students.
Universities must submit their short courses for state evaluation. They have to meet requirements on course quality, student supervision and reporting. Courses must include at least 60 per cent in-person teaching and last no more than 180 days.
Attendance and progress get tracked
Universities must monitor foreign students’ attendance and send the data to the ministry. Regular progress reports are also required through a government database.
Schools that fail to follow these rules risk having their short-term courses cancelled. For students, the new probe means that enrollment alone no longer guarantees a student visa.