Funding Woes: UK Universities Strained as International Student Numbers Decline
UK universities are facing a funding crisis, largely driven by a sharp decline in international student numbers.
New government policies, such as restrictions on the graduate visa route and limits on family reunifications for international students, have contributed to this downturn.
These changes have led to a significant drop in deposits for this academic year, with a 63% decline compared to the previous year​.
The drop in foreign student enrollment is especially concerning for institutions that have become highly dependent on the revenue from international students to maintain their financial stability.
Some reports predict that as many as 40% of universities in England could end the year in financial trouble.
This situation could worsen if international student numbers continue to fall.
As a result, UK higher education institutions are at a crossroads, facing both financial challenges and a potentially significant shift in their funding model.