Janice R. Andrews
University administrators have expressed concern over a notable drop in the number of international students enrolling in the UK, citing possible economic consequences. Based on information made public by Universities UK (UUK), there have been 33% fewer visas granted to international students than there were at the same time last year.
Many causes have been blamed for the dramatic drop in the number of international students, including the recent limits on immigration, the large increases in visa fees, and the uncertainty surrounding post-study employment options. The CEO of UUK, Vivienne Stern, voiced regret about government actions that appear to be undermining UK institutions’ ability to draw in foreign students.
Stern underlined the negative consequences of such policy changes, emphasizing that they might have a negative influence on universities themselves as well as the economies of several towns and communities around the United Kingdom. She urged political parties to reassure aspiring foreign students about the UK’s openness and the sustainability of the graduate visa program.
Notably, data from the Enroly admissions management system supports the downward trend, showing lower numbers for visa applications and deposits from overseas students than in prior years. The CEO of Enroly, Jeff Williams, emphasized how easily political and economic factors can affect the number of new hires.
International students account for a sizable share of university enrollments in the UK and significantly increase tuition fee income. A sharp decline in enrollment, however, may make many courses unprofitable and put a great deal of financial burden on universities.
An estimated £60 billion has been added to the UK economy since 2019 thanks to international students, according to a new report that UUK commissioned. The Department for Education restated its commitment to finding a balance between controlling net migration levels and luring gifted students to British colleges in spite of the concerns expressed.
