An IMGW News Report
UK universities are grappling with a sharp downturn in international student enrolments, with some institutions reporting declines of up to 80%, according to newly released data.
“the latest figures reflect a combination of government measures aimed at curbing migration, including policy changes that have significantly impacted international student flows into the UK”
Figures from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) show that total international student enrolments fell by 7% in the 2023–2024 academic year, while non-EU postgraduate enrolments were down 10%. The sharpest declines have come from key markets: Nigeria (-36%), India (-15%), and China (-4%), as reported by education intelligence platform ICEF Monitor.
Post-1992 universities, typically the newer institutions, have suffered the most severe impact, with non-EU postgraduate taught enrolments down by 15%. According to Times Higher Education, Staffordshire University recorded the largest drop, with international enrolments collapsing by 79% — from 1,205 students in 2022–23 to just 255 last year. Other universities reporting significant losses include the University for the Creative Arts (-54%), University of Worcester (-53%), and University of Central Lancashire (-50%).
Several institutions experienced declines of over 40%, including Coventry University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Liverpool Hope University, and the University of Dundee, Times Higher Education confirmed.
The fall in numbers is closely linked to tighter UK immigration policies. From January 2024, international students enrolled in master’s programmes have been barred from bringing dependents — a rule that previously applied only to undergraduates. In addition, uncertainty surrounding the review of the Graduate Route work visa further dampened international applications.
Industry experts suggest that the latest figures reflect a combination of government measures aimed at curbing migration, including policy changes that have significantly impacted international student flows into the UK.
Further restrictions are under consideration, including higher financial maintenance thresholds, standardised English testing, and stricter oversight of recruitment practices. Currently, international students must show funds of £1,334 per month for London-based courses and £1,023 for courses elsewhere.
With total UK university enrolments slipping to 2.9 million, down 1% year-on-year, and nearly 70% of universities facing financial strain, the outlook remains challenging for the UK’s higher education sector.
