A recent Office for Students (OfS) analysis, based on UK Home Office data, reveals a 20.4% reduction in Indian student enrollments at UK universities from 2022-23 to 2023-24, dropping from 139,914 to 111,329.

This decline, part of a broader 11.8% net decrease in international acceptances, includes notable reductions for Nigerian students as well, down 44.6%.

The Indian National Students' Association (INSA) UK attributes the drop to several factors, including job prospects, safety concerns following anti-immigration riots, and restrictions on students bringing dependents.

The report warns that universities relying heavily on international students from countries like India, Nigeria, and Bangladesh will face significant financial challenges.

By 2025-26, the report anticipates a net income reduction of GBP 3,445 million for the sector, with a potential deficit of GBP 1,636 million.

Sanam Arora of the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK highlights misinformation, economic conditions, and policy changes as contributors to the decline.

To combat these issues, experts suggest enhanced communication and strengthened employability support from UK universities.