We start this coda with a discussion of the impact of the pandemic on higher education in our contexts. We then highlight the focus of this special issue, namely international students' language learning and intercultural encounters in Chinese universities. Reflecting on the relevant findings reported in this collection of studies, we relate individual studies to the critical issues of language, culture and curriculum, which underpin the core of international students' educational experiences. We conclude with our thoughts on what makes successful international experiences for cross-border students.