Written question asked by Lord Hay of Ballyore (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 29 May 2025. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Thursday, 29 May 2025 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Education: Exports

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that the UK education system remains globally competitive.

Answer

The UK remains a highly attractive study destination for international students, with four universities in the top 10 and 15 universities in the top 100, alongside a wide array of high quality institutions which offer a fulfilling and enjoyable experience to international students from around the world.

As my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education made clear in her video message last year, this government welcomes international students who enrich our university campuses, forge lifelong friendships with our domestic students and become global ambassadors for the UK.

The immigration white paper, published on 12 May, confirmed that we will retain the graduate visa, but reduce its duration from two years to 18 months. This will maintain our competitive post-study offer whilst ensuring individuals on this route obtain employment in graduate level roles and contribute to the country’s skills needs more quickly. The department will issue further details on implementation of the white paper measures in due course.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL7475
Session: 2024-26
Related items: Restoring Control over the Immigration System
Monday, 12 May 2025
Command papers
House of Commons
House of Lords
Subjects: Education Exports
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Education: Exports

Secondary information

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