The impact of
international
students in the UK

25 October 2017

The United Kingdom has a historic reputation as a provider of world-leading education and is the second most popular destination in the world for international students. Last year, 200,000 student visas were granted to allow international students to study in the UK.

Following on from recent analysis of exit checks data confirming that the overwhelming majority of students departed from the United Kingdom ahead of their visas expiring, the government has commissioned its independent advisers at the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to now assess the economic and social impacts of international students in the UK.

The MAC, which comprises of a group of internationally recognised experts in their field, is responsible for providing transparent, independent and evidence-based advice to the government on migration issues. As we look to leave the EU, this latest commission seeks an objective assessment of the impact of international students in the UK incorporating both EU and non-EU students at all levels of education.

As well as considering the overall impact, the commission will cover the following:

• The impact of tuition fees and other spending by international students on the national, regional, and local economy and on the education sector;
• The economic and social impacts beyond education, including on the labour market, housing, transport and other services, in particular, the role they play in contributing to local economic growth.

Since this commission extends to the first fully comprehensive assessment of students at all levels of education (i.e. including students in both higher and further education and also
those in primary and secondary education), the MAC is keen to receive data from a wide range of interested parties across all parts of the UK.

Alistair Jarvis, the chief executive of Universities UK has welcomed this examination of the net benefits of international students. “This is an opportunity to build on the considerable evidence that shows that international students have a very positive impact on the UK economy and local communities,” he said.

If you would like to share your feedback in relation to this consultation, the evidence should be submitted by 26 January 2018.

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