A new chapter for international students

Professor Julie Hall, incoming Vice-Chancellor of London Metropolitan University, responds to the Secretary of State for Education's recent positive speech on international students

Date: 26 July 2024

Since the Labour party swept to power earlier this month, the higher education sector has been looking for clues about their approach to higher education. 

That’s why, like many university leaders, I breathed a sigh of relief when I read the transcript of Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson's recent address at the Embassy Education Conference.  

Her speech marks an important change in the government's approach to international students and acknowledges their vital contribution to universities and broader society. 

Phillipson's remarks represent a clear departure from the attitude of the previous government. For far too long, international students have been subject to inconsistent messaging and used as a political football in a wider immigration debate.  

Proud to be an international university 

At London Metropolitan University, we take great pride in our diverse student body. With students from over 140 countries, we benefit immensely from a rich range of perspectives. This diversity enhances the learning experience for everyone in our community.

Phillipson pointed out that each international student contributes approximately £100,000 to our economy. Zooming out a little further, recent figures show that the economic benefit of international students to the UK rose from £31.3bn to £41.9bn between 2018/19 and 2021/22. This remarkable increase underscores the growing importance of international students to our economy.  

While this financial impact is significant, international students contribute more than just money. These students contribute to our cities, from London to Sunderland, supporting local businesses and enriching our communities with fresh ideas and cultural diversity. 

Philipson is right to point to the importance of the two-year post-study work visa (three years for PhD graduates) and it’s encouraging to hear support for this important policy. It provides our international graduates with a fair opportunity to apply their skills in the UK job market, benefits employers seeking top talent, and clearly demonstrates that Britain values global expertise. 

At London Metropolitan University, we fully support Phillipson’s vision and her commitment to creating an environment where international students can thrive and contribute to the UK. 

I look forward to seeing how this new policy direction develops and welcome this positive tone towards international students because, as Phillipson said in her speech, the UK wouldn’t be the same without them.