Responding to the release today of figures on UK revenues
from education-related exports showing a total figure of
£27.9 bn – of which 77.9% was accounted for by Higher Education -
Jamie Arrowsmith, Director of Universities UK
International, said:
“These figures underline the huge contribution international
students make to the UK - adding £21.7 billion to UK exports
in 2021. This is a huge achievement, and one that will no
doubt be welcomed by the government.
“However, the attractiveness of the UK as a study
destination is under threat. The number of international choosing
the UK has started to fall, with the number of study visas issued
down 5.5% in 2023. The government’s announcement that the
Graduate route will be reviewed has added to a challenging
recruitment environment, creating a great deal of uncertainty for
students and universities alike. Almost half (45%) of prospective
students say they would reconsider their study destination if the
post-study work offer was curtailed.
“Universities are key to driving growth, innovation, and
prosperity. Eroding our attractiveness to international students
will only undermine the contribution that our institutions – and
international students – make to communities across the whole of
the UK.”
Notes to editors:
-
Research by London
Economics for Universities UK and HEPI showed a single
cohort of international students in 2021/22 delivered
economic benefits totalling £41.9bn to the UK economy over
their time in the UK, on average £58 million net economic
contribution per constituency and equivalent to approximately
£560 per citizen.
- Survey on prospective students attitudes to post-study work
conducted by IDP: Student Marketing and
Recruitment | IDP Connect (idp-connect.com)
