The UK has witnessed a sharp decline in UK student visa applications, with a 16% drop reported in October 2024. Compared to the same period in 2023, there were only 350,700 UK student visa applications between January and September 2024. This marks a significant shift in international student trends, as stricter visa policies take effect.
The latest data highlights a concerning reversal of the UK’s previously strong position in the global education market. Versus last year, fewer international students are choosing the UK as their study destination.
No more dependents
The decline comes amidst recent government measures aimed at tightening immigration rules, particularly those targeting dependent visas. Specifically, those under a UK student visa can no longer bring their dependents into the United Kingdom. From January to September 2024, the UK’s Home Office only received 17,800 applications for dependents, 85% lower than in 2023.
The previous Conservative administration under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was responsible for the new policy, introduced in May 2024. Apart from prohibiting dependents from accompanying international students, they called for stricter compliance standards and standardized English language assessments.
The changes, aimed at reducing overall migration numbers, have directly impacted UK student visa applicants planning to travel with families. Dependents now face greater restrictions, making the UK less attractive for students from countries like India and Nigeria.
Education experts argue that these measures have created uncertainty among prospective students.
Impact on UK student visa applicants
International students, particularly those from family-oriented cultures, are reconsidering the UK for their higher education. Dependents often play a crucial role in study-abroad decisions, and these new rules are shifting preferences elsewhere. For example, Indian and Nigerian students, previously major contributors to the UK student body, are exploring alternative options.
A potential long-term effect of the drop in UK student visa applications is a decrease in diversity on UK campuses. Students enrich the academic environment with varied perspectives, which could now diminish.
The decline in student numbers poses financial challenges for UK universities, heavily reliant on international tuition fees. These fees contribute significantly to university budgets, supporting research, facilities, and staff. If the trend continues, universities may struggle to maintain their financial health. Especially as tuition fees for domestic students are also expected to increase within the next five years.
Beyond education, the UK economy also stands to lose with fewer UK student visa applications. International students contribute billions annually through tuition, housing, and living expenses. A sustained drop in student visas could weaken this vital economic driver.
Graduate Route Visa to remain unchanged
However, the British government has maintained that the UK Graduate Route Visa remains unchanged. In addition, officials also emphasized that they remain committed to supporting international students and their contributions to the UK’s economy.
“Alongside the confirmation that the Graduate route remains in place, the new government has sent a clear message that international students are valued by and welcome in the U.K., providing some clarity and certainty for prospective students,” said Charley Robinson, head of mobility policy at Universities UK Internationals, speaking to The PIE News.
“However, as the data shows, the recruitment environment remains very challenging.”
Photo by Kyle Gregory Devaras on Unsplash
