Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of recent changes to visa rules on recruitment of international students by UK universities.

The government has been clear that we welcome international students who meet the requirements to study in the UK. We value the contribution that international students make to our society, economy and to the UK’s global reputation. We have some of the best universities in the world and we want the best minds to aspire to complete their education here.

The Immigration White Paper sets out a balanced approach to reducing net migration while maintaining the UK’s global competitiveness. Universities that sponsor international students also have an important role in protecting the integrity of the immigration system by ensuring it is not being exploited or abused.

The government recognises that changes to visa rules may affect international student recruitment. Officials continue to monitor emerging recruitment trends and engage regularly with the Home Office and the higher education sector.