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Written question asked by Abtisam Mohamed (Labour) on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 October 2025 (named day). It was answered by Josh MacAlister (Labour) on Monday, 3 November 2025 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Overseas Students: Fees and Charges

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, with reference to (a) the levy on higher education provider income from international students proposed in her Department's white paper entitled Restoring Control over the Immigration System, published in May 2025, CP 1326 and (b) bullet 32 in in her Department's publication entitled Restoring Control over the Immigration System, Technical Annex, published in May 2025, what assessment she has made of potential price elasticities for non-EU students.

Answer

The department has engaged with the Home Office regarding the international student levy, including on its design and impacts. We will set out further details on the levy at the Autumn Budget.

The Immigration White Paper included an illustrative example that a 6% levy could reduce student inflows by up to 7,000 per year. We expect the UK to remain a highly attractive study destination. Our world-class higher education (HE) sector can offer a fulfilling and enjoyable experience to international students from around the world.

In recognition of the sector’s challenging financial environment, we have increased tuition fee limits in this academic year and refocused the Office for Students to monitor the sector’s financial health.

We have published our new plan for HE reform through the Post-16 education and skills white paper, which sets out our ambition for a world leading and financially sustainable HE sector.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
82104
Session
2024-26
Related items
Restoring Control over the Immigration System
Monday, 12 May 2025
Command papers
House of Commons
House of Lords
Grouped for answer
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Fees and charges Overseas students
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk