London — UK universities, renowned for their prestige, are grappling with financial strain as recent visa restrictions and Brexit-related challenges reduce international student enrollment. The UK is a top global education destination, with 760,000 foreign students enrolled in 2022, particularly from India, China, and Nigeria. However, last year’s 5% drop in student visas, compounded by a 16% decrease in visa applications between July and September, signals a troubling trend.

Foreign students, who pay significantly higher fees than domestic students, are vital for UK universities’ finances. For instance, Leo Xui, a Chinese student at University College London, pays £31,000 per year, compared to the £9,250 cap for British students. The Labour government recently raised this cap slightly to £9,535, but inflation has diminished its value, with Universities UK (UUK) estimating the current fee’s worth at under £6,000.

Visa restrictions imposed by the former Conservative government have intensified recruitment difficulties. Policies preventing international students from bringing family members and barring in-study work visa transitions have dampened the UK’s appeal. Nick Hillman of the Higher Education Policy Institute expressed concerns over the UK’s declining attractiveness as a study destination. Coventry University’s Provost, Ian Dunn, highlighted Brexit’s impact, noting EU student numbers fell from 4,400 to just 10% of that.

To mitigate losses, some institutions have lowered admission criteria for foreign students. Coventry University has pioneered overseas partnerships, establishing campuses in Egypt, Morocco, India, and China, allowing students to earn UK degrees without setting foot in the UK.

As universities face mounting financial pressures, some students are choosing alternative destinations like Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, where English-taught courses are available and visa policies are more favorable.