A new report has revealed that Nigerian students are increasingly reluctant to pursue undergraduate studies in the United Kingdom. Official statistics show a significant decline of 46% in the number of Nigerian applicants for graduate and postgraduate degrees in the UK, the largest drop among all countries.
The decline in Nigerian student applications is attributed to factors such as the weakening of the naira and visa restrictions that prevent students from bringing dependents or close family members to the UK. Nigerian students previously had the highest number of dependents brought in by international students, as of September 2023.
Data from the UK Universities and College Admissions Service (UCAS) for the 2024-25 academic year also indicates a 1% decline in UK applicants compared to the previous year. However, overall applicant numbers remain higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Dr. Jo Saxton, Chief Executive at UCAS, noted that while there is a decline in applications from mature students, especially in subjects like nursing, these applicants are more likely to apply later in the cycle. She emphasized that there are still plenty of opportunities for students to apply until June 30 and through Clearing, with support and guidance available on the UCAS website.
In December 2023, the UK government, led by Rishi Sunak, announced a review of the Graduate Route visa, allowing graduates to stay and gain work experience in the UK for at least two years after completing their degree. Experts suggest that potential changes to the UK's visa policy could impact the attractiveness of UK universities to overseas students.
No comments:
Post a Comment