#None #payment solutions #International Students #UnionPay

UnionPay International Launches New Program for International Students

UnionPay International (UPI), a leading global payment solutions provider, has recently announced an innovative program designed specifically for international students. This initiative, launched in partnership with numerous universities, tuition payment platforms, student housing managers, and local banks, aims to simplify and enhance the payment processes for students studying abroad.

As students and their families gear up for the upcoming academic year, the demand for tuition payments has seen a significant rise, with an increase of 17% year-over-year in the first half of 2025. Recognizing this growing need, UnionPay has aligned resources to meet the requirements for cross-border payments, offering a comprehensive and efficient payment solution. The partnership with international payment platforms like Flywire, EasyTransfer, Convera (formerly Western Union), and PayMyTuition now enables seamless transactions across thousands of educational institutions worldwide. Universities can accept UnionPay cards through these platforms, along with real-time exchange rate discounts that enhance affordability for students.

The program not only facilitates the settlement of tuition fees but also covers everyday campus expenses, including dining, transportation, and leisure activities. By utilizing UnionPay products, international students can access a variety of discounts across retail outlets, restaurants, airline services, hotel bookings, and delivery services, significantly easing their financial burden while studying abroad.

UPI's collaboration with local banks has enabled the issuance of UnionPay cards in major destinations for international students such as Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Spain, and Canada. This strategic move allows students to apply for local cards upon arrival, ensuring they can conveniently use their payment options without delay. Furthermore, UnionPay's payment accepting partners in the UK, including Unite Students and Chapter-living, along with notable student housing brands in Australia like Scape, Iglu, and UniLodge, have incorporated UnionPay's online payment services, expanding the network's accessibility.

UnionPay cards are accepted in 183 countries and regions, providing international students with transparent and secure payment options that foster easier integration into local communities. In prominent areas like Hong Kong and Macao SAR, nearly all ATMs and merchants accept UnionPay, including popular spots and services such as the MTR's contactless payment system, Octopus card recharges via Apple Pay, and famous dining establishments in areas like Lan Kwai Fong. In Singapore, major educational institutions, including NUS and JCU, accept UnionPay for online tuition fees and ATMs, with around 80% merchant acceptance for daily transactions.

Across Europe and the UK, UnionPay is widely accepted at ATMs, department stores, cafes, restaurants, and tourist attractions, including renowned universities like Portsmouth, Edinburgh, Sussex, and Imperial College London. In Canada, over 500,000 merchants, including popular chains such as IKEA, Dollarama, Tim Hortons, and Starbucks, facilitate UnionPay transactions. Similar acceptance is seen in Australia, where universities like Melbourne University and the University of Sydney welcome UnionPay for both online and in-store payments. Even in New Zealand, prominent institutions provide UnionPay services at campus bookstores and cafes.

With the continued growth of international students worldwide, UnionPay remains committed to enhancing the reliability and safety of cross-border payments at reduced costs. This initiative not only benefits students but also boosts local consumer markets, presenting consistent opportunities for banks and merchants globally. UPI continuously seeks new partners to enrich and streamline the payment ecosystem for international students, reinforcing its dedication to making their educational experiences more accessible and enjoyable.

In conclusion, UnionPay International's new program reflects a critical response to the rising trends in international education and student mobility. By providing tailored payment solutions that prioritize convenience and security, UPI is set to play a pivotal role in supporting students throughout their academic journeys abroad.