More than 400 institutions of higher learning from at least 24 countries are participating in the China International Education Exhibition Tour. This is the country's largest and most influential education event, which opened in Beijing.

The China International Education Exhibition, which is sanctioned by China's Ministry of Culture and Education, provides a venue for international universities and colleges to showcase their offerings and entice Chinese students to study abroad.

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Studying abroad has become a popular trend in China, especially among wealthy families who find it hard to get their children into top college and universities in the country.

With China's reputation as the largest source for students studying overseas, learning institutions from different countries around the world are joining the education exhibit more so than before.  This is with the hope to attract more Chinese students.

An education expert said studying overseas is becoming less of a luxury and more of a reality in China. Going abroad to study also affords Chinese students the chance to take up the majors they want and the courses they want to pursue.

Beijing is just the first leg of this year's China International Education Exhibition Tour, which is now on its 19th year. The expo will also open in six other cities, including Shanghai, Wuhan and Shenzhen.

Last year, Chinese students account for nearly 25 percent of international students studying in the US and the number is still growing.

And while the United States continues to be the favorite destination for Chinese students who want to study abroad, European countries have also become attractive, even in countries where teaching is done using languages other than English.

In fact, this year's education expo is participated in by about 100 institutions from non-English speaking nations.

There are also European countries that simplify visa applications for Chinese students and even provide financial support.