UK to Charge Universities $1,200 per Foreign Student in 2028

The United Kingdom is set to implement an annual levy of £925 (approximately $1,200) on universities for each international student enrolled from Nigeria, India, and China, beginning in August 2028. This levy is intended to finance maintenance grants for disadvantaged domestic students.

According to UK Home Office statistics for the year ending June 2026, China, India, and Nigeria accounted for about 54% of sponsored study visas granted. The National Union of Students and the Russell Group have expressed concerns regarding this funding arrangement, especially as international student visa applications have decreased by 22% over the past year and more than 30% compared to three years ago.

The legislation also states that students enrolled in prior academic years will incur the annual charge upon reaching the anniversary of their initial registration. Additionally, students from households earning up to £30,000 annually will receive financial support throughout their undergraduate studies.

The funding concerns arise amid stricter immigration policies affecting international students, with visa refusals increasing significantly in 2026.