Decline in international students in UK and financial crisis

Pars Today – The Guardian has reported that the financial crisis facing British universities is worsening as the number of international students declines.

According to Pars Today, citing IRIB, the number of applicants seeking to study at British universities has fallen as the cost of living in the UK has increased and destinations such as China and Canada have become more attractive to international students.

According to figures from the UK Home Office, student visa applications were 11% lower by the end of July compared with the same period last year. Some universities have also expressed concern over declines of as much as 30% in international student enrollment.

Higher education officials in the UK say the decline in international students is affecting university revenues and employment in the sector, while also increasing the risk of bankruptcy for some institutions. The Guardian also reported that a decline in international students could cost the British local and national economies billions of pounds, in addition to its impact on universities.