The issue surfaced after numerous parents collectively reported financial pressure from the university to the media.

According to parents, the university issued a notice stating that students who failed subjects, if they wished to remove academic penalties or avoid expulsion, had to participate in a 15-day "short-term study abroad program" in the UK or Japan. After this trip, students would receive a certificate and be allowed to retake exams with a "guaranteed" pass.

Ms. Ngo stated that starting last September, university teachers consistently harassed her with phone calls, informing her that her child failed four subjects and would face expulsion if they did not join the program. The teacher also promised that students who paid would receive priority for dormitory assignments and scholarship consideration.

"This March, I paid US$11,000. However, the promised study abroad itinerary completely vanished, with no further information provided", Ms. Ngo expressed frustration.

Another parent, Ms. Hoang, whose child is in their final year, revealed that a teacher frankly admitted: "This program actually involves no research or overseas activities; it is merely a formality to avoid academic probation."

The account receiving the funds was not the university's, and parents were not provided with invoices.

Campus of Xi'an Institute of Technology and Business. Photo: BXAIT

The incident sparked outrage after being viewed 10 million times on social media.

"I cannot understand it. How can something like this be bought and sold? Schools have become businesses", one internet user expressed frustration.

Another user stated: "Authorities should thoroughly investigate and severely punish those involved."

Facing public pressure, on 16/12, the Shaanxi Provincial Department of Education confirmed it had launched an investigation into the matter.

In China, most universities and colleges are state-funded. Nationally, there are only about 800 private higher education institutions, including the Xi'an Institute of Technology and Business. According to SCMP, few private schools in the country are highly regarded by the public.

Doan Hung (According to The Paper, SCMP)