Recognising the contribution international students make to the UK

Last updated on Tuesday 20 Dec 2022 at 10:28pm

We've joined with GuildHE, Million Plus and University Alliance to urge the government to restate its commitment to the ambitions set out in the International Education Strategy and to avoid language that suggests international students and their dependents may be unwelcome in the UK.

International students make a net positive contribution of at least £25.9 billion per year to the UK economy and are the source of almost 70% of the UK’s education export earnings.

Letter

Our letter to the Home Secretary

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Our letter to the Home Secretary stresses that, while we share the government's commitment to drive growth, boost exports and spur innovation, we must not underestimate the enormous contribution and success story that is the UK's ability to attract international students.

The negative rhetoric suggesting a need to reduce international student numbers is unhelpful and counterproductive. It stands to directly impact on the continued success of one of the UK’s premier export industries and restrict economic growth. Such rhetoric is also quickly reported on around the world, sending a message overseas that the UK is unwelcoming and hostile to international students. That is why we would urge the government to restate its commitment to the ambitions.

Signed by

Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive, UUK

Gordon McKenzie, Chief Executive, GuildHE

Rachel Hewitt, Chief Executive, MillionPlus

Vanessa Wilson, Chief Executive, University Alliance

Recognising the contribution international students make to the UK

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