UK drops international student targets in new strategy, raising fresh uncertainty for overseas learnersA clear shift from earlier policyFocus moves overseasHow will this impact studentsThe UK government has announced a new international education strategy that seeks to increase the value of education exports to £40 billion annually by 2030. Nearly three-quarters of this revenue is generated by higher education institutions. Recent Home Office data indicates a sharp fall in international student visa applications, with monthly figures dropping below 30,000. The government has made it clear that while the UK remains open to international learners, accountability and regulation will play a larger role going forward.A central pillar of the strategy is the expansion of UK education abroad. It will also benefit home students with increased global connections and a financially higher education sector.The overall scheme signifies a shift from volume recruitment to a system that focuses on reach, regulation, and sustainability in ensuring international students' access to UK education.

Source: International New York Times January 20, 2026 08:51 UTC