Russell Group Urges UK Government to Exempt PhD and Short-Term Students from International Student Levy

What Is the Proposed UK International Student Levy?

The proposed UK international student levy is a government-backed policy. It would require universities to pay an extra charge for enrolling international students. The idea behind this is to raise additional funding for the higher education sector. At a time when universities are facing financial pressure, it is crucial to have additional funds. However, many institutions, including those in the Russell Group, worry that this added cost could make studying more expensive in the UK, especially for PhD candidates. It will eventually be less attractive for international students. They argue it may particularly affect PhD students and short-term exchange students, who play a key role in research and global collaboration.

Why the Russell Group Wants PhD Students Exempt

The Russell Group does not want the inclusion of PhD students from the proposed international student levy because they are vital to the UK’s research and innovation system. These students contribute directly to major research projects, scientific breakthroughs, and industry partnerships. They work basically at the forefront of discoveries. The group argues that raising the cost and creating financial pressure would result in fewer recruits of international PhD candidates. It would discourage top global talent. It will also affect the country’s research output, global competitiveness, and economic growth in the longer run. 

Impact of the Levy on Short-Term and Exchange Students

The proposed levy could also create challenges for short-term and exchange students, who typically come to the UK for a semester, research collaboration, or academic partnership. Universities may become more cautious about hosting these students if additional costs are attached, potentially reducing opportunities for global exchanges. The Russell Group argues that short-term mobility programmes strengthen international partnerships, cultural exchange, and research collaboration. Adding financial barriers, they warn, could limit these valuable academic connections and make the UK a less flexible and welcoming destination for global students.

What This Means for UK Universities and International Recruitment

If introduced, the levy could add further financial strain on UK universities that already rely heavily on international tuition fees to support teaching and research. Institutions may have to rethink recruitment strategies, course offerings, or international partnerships to manage the added cost. According to the Russell Group, this could make the UK less competitive compared to other popular study destinations. In the long run, it may slow international student recruitment, impact research funding, and affect the diversity and global outlook that international students bring to campuses across the country.