Archive · 30 Jan 2026
UK Higher Education Enrollments Decline in 2024-25
In the 2024-25 school year, the number of students in UK universities went down by 1%.
This happened because fewer students are enrolling in postgraduate taught programs, especially international students.
First degree programs saw a small increase, but other undergraduate courses saw a big drop.
The number of students from countries like India, China, and Nigeria decreased, while the number of students from Nepal increased.
More students are also studying for UK qualifications in other countries.
The number of degrees awarded also went down by 1%, with fewer master's degrees but more doctorates.
The UK is trying to make it easier for students to come to the country to study.
Total higher education enrollments in the UK fell by 1% in 2024-25, with 2,863,180 students enrolled.
First degree enrollments increased by 2%, while other undergraduate courses saw a 7% decline.
Postgraduate taught enrollments decreased by 5%, driven by a 10% drop in non-EU international students.
The number of students from India, China, and Nigeria decreased, while Nepalese students increased significantly.
Transnational education students studying for UK qualifications overseas rose by 8%, reaching 669,950.
- Who
- UK higher education students, including international students
- What
- Decline in higher education enrollments and qualifications awarded
- When
- 2024-25 academic year
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- Decrease in postgraduate taught students, particularly international students, and changes in visa regulations
- Total Enrollments
- 2,863,180
- First Degree Enrollments
- 668,170
- Postgraduate Taught Enrollments
- Decreased by 5%
- International Students (Non-EU)
- Decreased by 10%
- Top Countries of Origin
- India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan, Nepal
- Transnational Education Students
- 669,950
- Qualifications Awarded
- 1,043,665
- First Class Honours
- 30%
