Falling international student numbers are forcing UK universities to cut staff and courses, further undermining the nation’s appeal as a top study destination.
London’s University of Law (ULaw) recently reduced its staff numbers due to lower international student uptake, while other institutions face potential closure in the coming years unless they cut costs or merge.
This trend follows legislation introduced a year ago that barred international students from bringing family members.
An anonymous source at ULaw said: “We recently experienced a significant number of redundancies across a number of departments and campuses.
“It’s the first time we’ve had this since I started but I doubt it will be the last.
“We’re also not the only institution affected.”
The University of Kent also recently announced staff cuts as a direct result of poor international student numbers, and the Office for Students warns that without such actions, a sharp drop in international student numbers could push four out of five institutions into a deficit by 2027.
Cause and effect
According to Home Office data, study visa applications from January to December 2024 were 14% lower than during the same period in 2023.
During this time, applications from student dependents fell to 22,600—a decline of 84% compared to the previous year.
The ULaw source added: “At our university, we’ve seen a reduction of around 50% of international students enrolling just in the last academic year.
“The recent changes in visa restrictions, as well as negative rhetoric around migration in general, are leading international students to look elsewhere.”
In addition to the visa restrictions, student visa fees surged by 35% in October 2023—from £363 to £490—with some arguing that uncertainty about post-study work options is further deterring international students.
“What a lot of people don’t realise is that international students are a huge net benefit to the UK economy, bringing in over £30 billion per year,” the ULaw source said.
“Though fewer international students may in some cases result in more opportunities for domestic students, the disadvantages here really outweigh this benefit.”
Mixed messaging
The current visa restrictions were implemented during the last Conservative government, and many expected Labour to revise the legislation—especially after Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson remarked that “this government will take a different approach.”
In July last year, Phillipson stated: “Be in no doubt: international students are welcome in the UK.
“This new government values their contribution – to our universities, to our communities, to our country.”
However, Labour has since stressed its dedication to lowering net migration, with Phillipson stating that the government does “not intend” to lift the visa restrictions.
Many, including the ULaw source, argue that this stance is counterintuitive—particularly as the Government recently announced plans to create a European Silicon Valley by improving rail links between Cambridge and Oxford.
The source added: “International students benefit the UK economically, socially, and ensure we have a strong higher education sector.
“That means more industry and jobs, more research being done, more skilled workers, and a better university experience for domestic staff and students alike.”
Header photo by Redd Francisco on Unsplash
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