Chinese overseas students arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on April 12. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn]

The Ministry of Education issued an official warning against studying in Australia on Tuesday, suggesting students and scholars assess the risks before deciding to study in the country.

Major Australian universities plan to resume classes in July, but the COVID-19 pandemic has not been properly contained globally and there are still risks in international travel and opening schools, the ministry said.

There have also been incidents of discrimination against Asian people in Australia, it said.

The ministry suggested students and scholars take a more prudent approach toward studying in the country, it added.

China has been cautious about issuing warnings related to overseas studies. It issued one warning last year for students going to the United States due to visa restrictions.