In the Autumn Budget 2025 the UK Government announced a new levy on universities relating to international student recruitment. This guide answers key questions for prospective international students, agents and counsellors.
What is the international student levy?
The levy is a flat fee of £925 per international student per year of study, charged to higher education providers in England. It will apply to international student enrolments from August 2028 (the 2028–29 academic year), with the first payments made after that academic year once full student numbers are confirmed.
Who pays the levy?
Universities and colleges, not students, will pay the levy. It will be charged as a flat amount per international student enrolled at higher education (HE) providers in England.
Will this increase tuition fees for international students?
The levy will be charged to institutions and not to students. UK universities set their own fees, scholarships and bursaries according to their course offering and student recruitment priorities.
Why is the levy being introduced?
The government will use the levy to support maintenance grants for disadvantaged UK students studying courses which align with the UK’s industrial strategy. Universities remain committed to hosting international students and continues to strongly value their contribution. Universities will continue to offer targeted financial support for international students including scholarships and bursaries.
Does this apply across the UK?
Currently, the levy applies only to English HE providers. Devolved governments (Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) are not in scope, and Scottish and Welsh governments do not intend to introduce a similar levy.
Key takeaways
- The levy will apply to international student enrolments from August 2028 (the 2028–29 academic year), with the first payment collected once enrolment data for that year is finalised.
- It is not a direct student charge, and the UK remains committed to welcoming international students.
- We will continue to work with government on this matter, and advise agents, counsellors and prospective international students to monitor our updates.