A university in Jilin province, northeast China, has implemented a controversial dress code that prohibits students from dyeing their hair, painting their nails, and wearing short skirts or sleeveless tops, Beijing Time reported Monday.

According to the article, the School of International Business Administration at Jilin International Studies University had introduced a “moral education assessment” policy for the entire student body in late March. Students who do not follow the policy are at risk of having “morality points” deducted from their academic performance, the article said, and repeat offenders could fail their studies or delay their graduation.

On microblogging platform Weibo, Chinese netizens have expressed outrage over the new restrictions, calling them sexist. “All the new rules seem to target women,” commented one Weibo user under a media post. “Is this one of those ‘feminine virtues’ schools?” commented another, referring to private training institutions often criticized for espousing outmoded gender norms.

Jilin International Studies University, however, stands by the dress code. “The university campus is a civilized and cultured place,” the school told Beijing Time. “As such, students should dress and behave in a proper manner.” (Image: IC)