What do the results of the UK election mean for students and universities?

The Labour Party’s victory in the 2024 general election heralds a new era for education and immigration policies, with implications for students and higher education institutions.  

As Labour takes governmental power for the first time since 2010, this article delves into the party’s proposed reforms, focusing on the impact on higher education and immigration policies affecting international students and universities. 

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What will happen to tuition fees and student loans?

While Labour’s manifesto does not specifically address changes to tuition fees and student loans, shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson (expected to be confirmed as education secretary) has previously not ruled out any changes to tuition fees and has said that they would look at reforms to repayments of student loans. 

Funding for universities 

The manifesto was light on details of how Labour would tackle the financial issues universities are facing. 

However it has outlined plans to implement 10-year budgets for key research and development institutions and has moved away from the Conservatives’ rhetoric of shutting down “poor-performing courses”.

Ms Phillipson has previously said that stabilising the higher education sector was a “day one priority” for the Labour party and its manifesto states that the current funding settlement does not work and will work with universities around this. 

Student mental health and well-being 

Labour has committed to employing mental health support staff and careers advisers in schools. 

Apprenticeships and vocational training 

A clear point outlined in Labour’s manifesto is that it will establish a body called Skills England, which will bring together business, training providers and unions with national and local government to develop vocational skills. 

Skills England will also work with the Migration Advisory Committee to ensure that training in England accounts for the needs of the labour market. 

International students 

While little has been said about student visas, Labour’s proposed reforms to the points-based immigration system and focus on reducing net migration could have significant implications for international students. 

International students could face a more streamlined and transparent immigration process, although the focus on reducing net migration could limit opportunities for some. 

The ban on employers who break employment laws from hiring foreign workers could enhance protections for international students working in the UK. 

Efforts to reduce reliance on overseas workers in sectors such as health and construction could lead to changes in post-graduation work opportunities for international students, affecting their long-term plans. 

Labour‘s victory in the 2024 general election signals a change from 14-year Conservative Party rule and universities and students will be watching to see how the new government will support the higher education sector. 

This article will continue to be updated following the election results.