BEIJING — China's education authority has asked universities to provide online courses for international students who are currently outside the Chinese mainland, an official said March 31.

The move came after China decided to temporarily suspend entry by foreign nationals holding valid Chinese visas and residence permits in response to the current COVID-19 epidemic situation, Liu Jin, with the Ministry of Education (MOE), said at a press conference in Beijing.

Online guidance will also be provided for international students in their senior year to help them complete their graduation thesis, Liu added.

For international students who are willing to suspend their study, quit school or extend the study period, the ministry will assist them in handling relevant process, she said.