A recent briefing from the House of Commons Library, shared with the Sunday National, has indicated that new immigration policies may deter international students from choosing the UK as a destination for higher education. The report comes in light of Dundee University’s announcement of a reduction of 300 jobs due to financial difficulties, largely attributed to a declining intake of overseas students.
Dundee University, which has significantly relied on the income generated from foreign students, has seen a drop in applications, particularly from countries where the ability to bring family members is a crucial factor in attracting applicants. While students from nations like Nigeria view family reunification as an important aspect of their study abroad experience, those from the United States consider it less significant.
In 2024, the UK government implemented stricter immigration rules that limited the ability for international students to bring dependents unless they are enrolled in PhD programmes. This policy change is part of a broader strategy aimed at tightening immigration controls, affecting various employment sectors, including health and social care.
Data from the House of Commons revealed a notable decline in student visa applications, with a 13% fall recorded last year and an alarming 84% decrease in applications from dependents of students. Stephen Gethins, an SNP MP and former academic at St Andrews University, expressed concern that Labour’s stringent immigration stance is adversely impacting Scottish universities. He stated, “Higher education in Scotland has been impacted disastrously by the decisions that are taken at Westminster...”
Gethins warned that the current policies threaten Scotland's reputation as home to “world-leading” institutions. He elaborated on the situation at Dundee, noting the profound financial repercussions resulting from a decline in postgraduate student enrolment. “The downturn in international recruitment has been one of the significant factors in the financial challenges facing the university,” he remarked, stressing the need for changes in government policy to protect the sector.
In response to these challenges, a spokesperson for Dundee University acknowledged that recent changes to visa regulations have indeed affected international student recruitment across the UK higher education landscape. "We are working intensively with partners around the world to bring students to Dundee,” the spokesperson said.
Scottish Higher Education Minister Graeme Dey affirmed the importance of international students to both campuses and local communities. He pointed out the need to address the decline in international enrolment and the adverse effects of UK migration policies. To counter these challenges, the Scottish Government has proposed a Scottish Graduate Visa, intended to facilitate the transition for international students into the workforce after graduation, thereby retaining talent within Scotland.
The UK Government has been asked for comments regarding the impact of these changes, but as yet has not responded. As the situation evolves, the ongoing dialogue between educational institutions and government officials will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of international education in Scotland.
Source: Noah Wire Services