Recent figures from Ucas reveal a slight decline in the number of international students securing spots in UK undergraduate programs. This year, 69,905 overseas applicants of all ages have accepted offers from universities or colleges, marking a 2.3% decrease compared to 2023.

This trend raises concerns among universities, which have highlighted significant financial implications stemming from the drop in international enrolments. These students typically pay higher tuition fees, and recent restrictions implemented by the former Conservative government have contributed to this decline. Notably, the number of Chinese students accepting places has also decreased: 17,070 this year compared to 17,405 in 2023, reflecting a 1.9% drop.

It's important to note that these statistics pertain solely to overseas undergraduate students who applied through Ucas. Universities UK (UUK) has previously indicated that the decline in international enrolments is particularly pronounced among postgraduate students.

Since January, new regulations have restricted international students from bringing dependants, except for certain postgraduate research courses or programs backed by government-funded scholarships. Additionally, data from the Home Office shows a 16% decrease in visa applications from overseas students between July and September.

A report released by the Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi) warns that some Chinese students perceive British universities as primarily focused on revenue generation. The report cautions that complacency regarding recruitment from China could be detrimental to institutions.

In contrast, the latest Ucas figures highlight a record number of UK 18-year-olds accepting places at degree courses this year. A total of 279,550 school and college leavers in the UK have secured offers for 2024, compared to 271,735 in 2023—a commendable increase of 2.9%. This rise is attributed to the growing population of young adults in the country.

Moreover, the number of UK 18-year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds accepting university placements has reached an all-time high. Nick Hillman, director of Hepi, expressed optimism about the positive trends for UK students but noted that the modest increase in accepted applicants should be viewed in context with the rising number of young people seeking higher education.

While the rhetoric surrounding international students has shifted following July’s general election, policies have remained largely unchanged. Hillman emphasizes the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the UK's approach to remain competitive with countries like the US, especially as international students there are being offered green cards.

A spokesperson for UUK remarked on the substantial benefits international students bring to UK universities and highlighted how their fees support high-quality education across the board. The decrease in accepted international undergraduate applicants via Ucas signals a challenging landscape for both student recruitment and university finances. The new government's commitment to supporting international students is welcomed but calls for further action to ensure the UK remains an attractive destination for global talent.

Jo Saxton, chief executive at Ucas, expressed her satisfaction with the increasing number of UK 18-year-olds accepting university places in 2024. She particularly celebrated the record growth among disadvantaged students taking this crucial step forward. Removing barriers—both tangible and perceived—remains a top priority for Ucas, and it’s heartening to see these numbers on the rise.