Universities UK has responded to the proposed changes to the immigration rules for international students wishing to study in the UK. Details of the changes - most of which will come into force on 3 March 2010 - were published today by the government following a statement by the Home Secretary Alan Johnson.

Universities UK supports many of the proposed changes but expressed concern about the potentially significant impact on the provision of English language programmes by universities and other providers.

Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive of Universities UK, said: “All universities would support the need to ensure that people do not abuse the student visa system and we acknowledge the need for effective immigration controls. However, the UK derives significant academic, cultural and financial benefits from international students. In a highly competitive market for students we must ensure we remain a welcoming and attractive destination. It is vital for the continued success of UK universities that the mobility of genuine students and staff is facilitated.

“The creation of 'Highly Trusted Sponsors' is a positive step and we look forward to working with UKBA on the details to ensure all UK universities, and their international students and staff, can benefit from these arrangements.

“We are concerned about the proposals to restrict English language study as the UK is a major destination for students wishing to learn English before studying for a degree and there is a real risk that restrictions on reputable education institutions will make the UK less attractive to international students. We will be discussing this aspect of the proposals in more detail with UKBA over the next few weeks.”

Notes

1. The proposals relate to changes to Tier 4, the student tier of the Points-Based System following a review of the student immigration system announced by the Prime Minister on 12 November 2009.
2. Universities UK's latest study (November 2009) on 'The impact of universities on the UK economy' found that gross export earnings for the higher education sector were estimated to be over £5.3 billion. The personal off-campus expenditure of international students and visitors amounted to £2.3 billion. More information is available. 
3. The direct value of overseas students to the UK economy is estimated at £8.5bn according to latest figures by the British Council. 
4. The latest (HESA) statistics show that in 2007/08, there were 341,790 non-UK domicile HE students studying in the UK. International students form 14% of the full-time student population in the UK and 43% at research postgraduate level. Around 11% of academic staff are non-EU nationals and we welcome many thousands of international academic visitors to the UK every year.