Overseas Student Applications to UK Universities Rise Again
The surge in international student applications to UK universities for undergraduate courses has persisted for a second consecutive year, despite the backdrop of stricter government regulations aimed at reducing migration. New data released indicates that 115,730 students from overseas applied to commence studies in September, marking a slight increase from 114,910 applicants the previous year.
These figures come amid ongoing concerns over accusations that universities may be compromising academic standards to attract overseas students who are charged considerably higher fees than domestic students. Allegations of lowered admission standards have prompted a review of university admissions processes.
Dr. Jo Saxton, the Chief Executive of Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), reassured prospective domestic students that the rise in international applications shouldn't alarm them, as applications from UK students have also been on the rise in recent years. However, the data provided by UCAS primarily focuses on undergraduate courses, while most international students tend to pursue postgraduate studies, such as master's degrees.
Vivienne Stern, the Chief Executive of Universities UK, welcomed the marginal increase in international applications but cautioned that it only presents a partial view of the overall recruitment landscape. "She highlighted the unpredictable nature of international student recruitment challenges for universities."
The disparity in tuition fees between domestic and international students has been a topic of concern. While domestic students pay up to £9,250 per year for undergraduate tuition, international students can be charged as much as £38,000 per year for undergraduate courses and £30,000 per year for postgraduate courses.
Despite the financial contributions from international students, universities are grappling with financial pressures exacerbated by new regulations restricting the ability of international students to bring family members and negative rhetoric surrounding migration. This has led to concerns about the financial sustainability of universities, with reports of job cuts and disruptions in education due to strikes over pay and pensions.
The UK government has set a target of attracting 600,000 international students per year by 2030, citing the economic benefits and enhancement of the country's soft power. However, signs of strain are evident, with indications of a slowdown in the post-Covid boom in international student numbers due to political pressure against migration and rising costs of studying in the UK.
In light of these challenges, maintaining the attractiveness of UK universities to international students while addressing domestic concerns and ensuring the sustainability of higher education institutions remains a critical priority.
