91探花

The government has published its which shows that Sponsored study visa applications were down 16% this year, when compared to January-October 2023. 

Louise Tweedie, partner and higher education specialist at 91探花, comments: “The latest data covers the period including the start of the academic year for most universities. It shows a continuing downward trend since the policy change on dependents came into force in January 2024, with approximately 68,000 fewer applications. 

“This is a significant income loss for the sector and will hit some institutions hard, especially for those impacted by the changing profile of home students, as increasing numbers are registering at higher tariff institutions. These changing home and international student choices will require some institutions to revisit financial forecasts and reassess their financial sustainability plans. 

“The going concern assessments on the agendas of audit committees and boards across the sector will be subject to much scrutiny and focus as part of the year end. While the increase in the tuition fee from 1 August 2025 will provide a welcome boost to sector finances, transformation and change will now be centre of mind for a number of universities to support long-term planning and financial sustainability.”