Advising students about UK study after the ‘Brexit’ vote
Students and their parents, at various stages of the application process, will be asking you all about what Brexit might mean for them. While the long-term changes are still to be decided, there are some things we can be more certain of in the short term. We’ve pulled together some of the key messages and links to trusted information, which will help you advise your students on the best decision for them.
Changes are coming – but not yet
The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) is the national advisory body for international students and their advisers. As their guide to the EU referendum points out, the UK will remain a member of the EU for at least another two years. During this time, EU nationals will have the same right to reside, study, and work in the UK as they do now.
As the British Council and Universities UK remind us, the UK’s relationship with the EU is changing, but not ending. UK universities and colleges will continue to welcome staff and students from other European countries.
UK universities and colleges continue to value a diverse, international campus
Students are an important part of the internationalisation agenda of UK higher education, but their experience while studying in the UK depends on factors such as international partnerships and exchanges, research programmes, and the international staff who teach them. Universities UK has a full set of FAQs about Brexit’s impact on the internationalisation agenda.
Eligibility for student finance remains essentially unchanged
All four UK countries have confirmed arrangements for 2017/18, and in each country, eligible students starting a course in 2017/18 will be able to access support for the duration of their studies. You can get more information from:
- EU nationals and student finance in England on the Student Loans Company website
- EU nationals and student finance in Wales on the Student Finance Wales website
- EU nationals and student finance in Northern Ireland on the NI Direct website
The Scottish Government has also confirmed student support arrangements for EU learners entering higher education in Scotland in 2017/18.
Universities and colleges are working with the UK governments to confirm arrangements for 2018/19 EU student fees and loans as soon as possible.
A UK degree is still a good investment for your students’ future
UK higher education is recognised across the world for its high quality, and can open up all kinds of opportunities for your students. The British Council’s ‘Study UK: Discover You’ campaign celebrates the achievements of some of the UK’s many international alumni.
For students currently studying in the UK or about to start, exchange rates against the sterling make the UK an even more attractive choice.