‘Brighter’ outlook for UK international student recruitment

An increase in the number of international students entering the UK to start courses in January suggests a “bright outlook” for the sector, according to new data.

New figures from Enroly, a platform that supports universities in recruiting abroad, finds that the number of deposits made for the January intake is up 27 per cent on last year.

It also found that Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issuances were up 14 per cent on 2024, a year heavily impacted by new rules banning students below PhD level from bringing their dependants with them when they study.

In part because of this decision, recent visa figures have shown that overseas student numbers are well down on previous years, with most predicting the trend would continue into January. But the increase recorded in Enroly’s data shows signs of a rebound.

It said that the “exciting” figures highlight the increasingly strategic importance of the January intake for UK universities, offering significant opportunities to engage with emerging markets and diversify recruitment efforts.

Student interest did appear to vary widely between global regions. The number of deposits from students based in the Middle East fell by 31 per cent, and 33 per cent in east Asia.

However, it grew by 84 per cent in east Africa and 27 per cent in West Africa, as a result of strong growth from Kenya and Nigeria, respectively.

The number of deposits from South Asian students also grew by 31 per cent. Enroly said that Nepal’s 194 per cent increase means it was catching Nigeria as one of the UK’s most important source markets.

Traditionally considered a secondary intake, Enroly said January was evolving into a “viable and attractive option for both students and institutions”.

“The data signals not only a recovery from previous challenges but also an opportunity to reposition January as a cornerstone of international recruitment efforts.

“This trend equally reinforces the resilience of the UK higher education sector and opens new avenues to strengthen its global position.”

The data show that deposits were down slightly year-on-year among postgraduate taught students, but up 15 per cent in the postgraduate research market.

And among undergraduate students, deposits increased by 7 per cent and CAS issuances by 43 per cent.

Overall, Enroly said the figures showed a “bright outlook” for the sector and that the UK has the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of shifting global trends.

“The growth we’re seeing in the January 2025 intake is promising”, said chief executive Jeff Williams. “It highlights the potential of this enrolment period to complement the traditional September intake.

“The consistent year-on-year growth reflects the resilience of UK higher education and its ability to adapt to global trends”, he added. By focusing on emerging markets and continuing to refine our approach, we can unlock even greater opportunities to attract and support international students.”

patrick.jack@timeshighereducation.com