Scottish Universities Grapple with Decline in International Students Impacting Subsidized Tuition

Professor Hari Hundal from the University of Dundee highlighted the substantial financial contribution of international students, amounting to approximately 30% of university revenue. This income has been crucial in supporting academic activities and maintaining competitiveness in research.

Jun 17, 2024 - 14:23

Scottish Universities Grapple with Decline in International Students Impacting Subsidized Tuition

Universities in Scotland has raised concerns about a 20% decline in international student numbers, warning that this reduction could hinder their ability to subsidize tuition fees for Scottish students. Experts have urged the Scottish Government to increase funding per Scottish student to stabilize the higher education sector amid financial challenges.

Professor Iain Gillespie, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Dundee and convener of Universities Scotland, emphasized that increasing funding for Scottish students alone might not suffice to offset the universities' reliance on tuition fees from international students. He highlighted that international student fees significantly contribute to university funding, supporting not only Scottish student tuition but also research initiatives.

Gillespie underscored the financial strain faced by Scottish universities, noting that the current funding model heavily depends on international student income. He expressed concerns about the recent policy changes impacting the university sector's budget, including unexpected funding cuts.

Sir Paul Grice, Vice-Chancellor at Queen Margaret University and Vice Convener for Universities Scotland, advocated for revisiting Scotland's free tuition model, suggesting a compromise to enhance financial sustainability. He stressed the necessity of adequate funding to support the costs of tuition and research, considering the current underfunding challenges.

The decline in international student enrollment, averaging 20% across Scotland's universities and reaching up to 75% for some institutions, has significantly affected university revenues. Experts have called for greater government predictability and transparency in funding allocations to address these challenges effectively.

Professor Hari Hundal from the University of Dundee highlighted the substantial financial contribution of international students, amounting to approximately 30% of university revenue. This income has been crucial in supporting academic activities and maintaining competitiveness in research.

The ongoing financial pressures underscore the urgent need for policy adjustments to safeguard the financial sustainability of Scottish universities amidst evolving global dynamics affecting international student mobility.