The University of Exeter is among the UK universities thought to be most at risk financially from the new restrictions on international students.
In recent national policy changes, the government has cracked down on international students in an attempt to reduce overall immigration numbers.
However, international students account for a significant proportion of the UK’s university income and are often vital to local economies.
In Exeter, alongside a few other UK cities, international students bring in more money from than any other industry, according to a new report from the think tank Centre for Cities.
The report outlines how “[international student income] provides more than 15 per cent of the total value of local exports, more than any other city.”
The government’s proposed restrictions will affect student visas, dependents, post-study work opportunities, and add a six per cent levy on international tuition fees.
Tens of thousands of overseas students are currently being contacted by the Home Office, with messages that they’ll be removed from the UK if they overstay their visas without a legal reason to remain in the country.
Centre for Cities warns the changes could have a major impact on cities like Exeter, where the university is a central part of the local economy.
The university’s finances may also take a hit due to large reductions in student numbers, as international students pay increased fees compared to home students.
Growing numbers of universities in England are finding themselves in financial crisis, in part caused by falling international student numbers, alongside below-inflation increases in tuition fees and funding more broadly.
Several institutions are millions of pounds in deficit, while some are at risk of collapse.
The report urges that proposals don’t overlook the role local universities play in impacting economic growth.
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