Concerns Rise as UK Witnesses Sharp Decline in Study Visas for Nigerian Students

 

The United Kingdom is facing concerns over a significant decline in the issuance of study visas to Nigerian and other international students for the January 2024 intake. The implementation of the dependant visa ban policy has raised apprehensions about the potential impact on British universities, affecting both admissions and revenues from foreign students.

Recent data from Enroly Data Insights, representing a sample of UK universities and based on 58,000 students, reveals a substantial downturn in key metrics for the January 2024 enrolment compared to January 2023 figures. Deposit payments, a crucial indicator, have dropped by 52%, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issuance by 64%, and visa issuance has seen an even more drastic decline of 71%.

The stark figures are primarily driven by a collapse in the Nigerian market, witnessing drops of 74% in deposits and 76% in CAS/visa issuance. There is also a significant decline in students from India, with deposits down by 52%, and CAS/visa issued down by 66%.

The report suggests that the decline in Nigerian student enrollment in UK universities may also be linked to the sudden devaluation of the Naira, limiting student mobility and access to foreign exchange.

In May 2023, the UK implemented a policy barring international students on taught master’s courses from bringing family members as dependants. Only students on designated research programs, including PhD students, can bring dependants under these new rules, effective from January 2024.

The figures released earlier indicated a substantial increase in dependant visas granted to Nigerians, exceeding the number of student visas. Enroly notes that many Nigerian students are now turning to universities in Canada, Germany, and Australia, perceived as more migrant-friendly in accommodating dependants.

India and Nigeria are among the top three countries with the largest numbers of students in UK universities. The decline in international students, particularly from non-EU countries, could have far-reaching consequences for UK higher education institutions.