Is the UK just the least bad option?
With record numbers of international students applying to UK universities in early 2025, many in the sector are breathing a cautious sigh of relief. Despite mounting concerns over net migration figures, looming visa reforms, and the ripple effects of an increasingly fraught geopolitical landscape, international demand appears resilient. Yet this surge raises an important question: where is the growth coming from—and how sustainable is it?
According to data released by Enroly in Q1 2025, UK universities have seen a marked increase in international student deposits and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issuance, particularly from key markets like India, Nigeria, and Pakistan. Meanwhile, ApplyBoard data points to an 8% decline in applicants from China—a significant shift, considering that China has historically been the single largest source of international students in the UK (ApplyBoard, 2025).
Access the full article
Subscription
£149.99
£99.99
10 issues of essential data sent to your email, monthly.
One-time Purchase
£3.00
£3.00
A one-time payment unlocks lifetime access to this article.
Subscribe to read the full story.
The author made this story available to IEI members only.
If you're new to IEI, subscribe to read this story on us.
Already have an account? Sign in
