Recent data from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) reveals a significant shift in international student trends.

While the number of students studying within the UK declined slightly to 685,565 in 2024/25 a 6% drop in enrollments in UK programs delivered abroad are on the rise.

UK visa data shows that study visa grants for international students reached 439,924 in the year ending September 2025, remaining stable from the previous year but 31% lower than the peak in 2023.

Notably, the number of dependents has plummeted by 57%, reflecting stricter visa rules introduced in 2023, especially affecting students from countries like Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka experienced a 36% decline in postgraduate enrollments, the second-largest decrease among source countries, largely due to these visa policy changes. 

Many Sri Lankan students, who traditionally brought family members with them, are now deterred by the new restrictions, causing some to postpone, switch to research courses, or pursue education in alternative countries like Canada and Australia.

The upcoming UK international student levy, set to begin in 2028, is also influencing university recruitment strategies. As the UK adapts to these policy shifts, the landscape for international students continues to evolve.