In a concerning turn of events, UK universities are teetering on the brink of financial deficit due to a significant decline in international student enrollment, warns Vivienne Stern, CEO of Universities UK.
Stern attributes this downturn to hostile rhetoric and policy changes by Rishi Sunak's government, creating an unwelcoming atmosphere for prospective international students. Some elite institutions, including York, are easing entry requirements to maintain overseas student numbers.
With non-EU student fees contributing nearly 20% to sector income, the freeze on domestic tuition fees exacerbates the financial strain. Analysts predict a perfect storm, with PwC analysis indicating that 40% of universities could be in deficit by 2023-24. Stern urges tuition fee adjustments, increased teaching grants, and a more supportive international market.
Higher education minister Robert Halfon emphasizes the government's focus on striking a balance between tackling net migration and attracting bright students.
The implications of this crisis extend beyond financial woes, potentially compromising educational quality and forcing universities to make significant cutbacks.
Source: Financial Times
