UK universities are seeing a notable decline in international student applications for the upcoming academic year, with a 15% drop reported by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). The decline is attributed to stricter visa rules and increased tuition fees.
Home Office regulations that limit dependents and restrict post-study work visas are deterring applicants from countries like India, Nigeria, and Bangladesh. Education analysts fear this will affect the UK’s higher education sector, which heavily relies on international fees.
Bangladeshi and Indian students are now exploring more affordable destinations like Germany, Canada, and even Asian universities with English-taught programs. Education consultants urge the UK to reconsider its policies to retain its global edge.
