New opportunities are opening up for Chinese families looking for a college education for their children as overseas universities relax their requirements for Chinese students. To help them get the information they need, the three-day Beijing International Education Expo got underway in Beijing on Sunday.

Chinese students and their parents are eagerly consulting with representatives from foreign institutions of higher learning about studying abroad. The less stringent admission requirements and overseas courses of study have attracted many parents and their children to consider the possibilities of studying abroad. The depreciation of foreign currencies in relation to the Chinese RMB has also been an attractive factor.

One visitor said "It's the right time to study abroad now. I think I will save at least 20 percent of the cost."

Due to fluctuations in the exchange rate brought by the global financial crisis, the cost of studying abroad is a little lower than last year.

Shi Jingjing, Deputy Director of Canadian Education Center said "Compared with last year, the foreign currency devaluated almost 30 to 40 percent. So it is worthwhile for Chinese students to study abroad now, saving around 30 percent of the cost."

Chen Can, Supervisor of Chinese Market of Australian Language Institute said "The price is about 10-thousand to 15-thousand yuan less than last year."

Some countries have even lowered the entry threshold for study visas to attract more Chinese students. Meanwhile, the Australian and British governments have also relaxed requirements on deposit terms.

The three-day Beijing International Education Expo got underway in Beijing on Sunday.

Wu Xinping, Official of Cultural Education Department of British Embassy said "Starting from March 31st, the deposit period will be shortened within 28 days. While, in the past, at least 6 months were required. If you plan to study for three to four years, you are required to provide sufficient money certification for supporting your three to four years of study. But now, an applicant only needs to provide the first year's financial certificate."

Other changes have also been made to make it easier to study abroad. In Australia, the government has lowered the requirements for a student visa from the 4th level to the third level. And students are now allowed to apply for part-time job without first applying for a work permit.