Nigerian students are increasingly choosing not to pursue undergraduate degrees in the United Kingdom. According to recent figures, Nigeria has experienced a 46% decrease in the number of applicants compared to other countries during the same time period.
The reduction in applications from Nigerian students is attributed to the devaluation of the naira and visa limitations that prevent them from bringing dependents or close family members to the UK. According to the data, Nigerian students had the highest number of dependents brought in by overseas students in September 2023.
The Economic Times of India reported that Indian students are losing interest in pursuing undergraduate degrees in the UK. The study stated that Indian student applications declined by 4% compared to the previous year, totaling 8,770 applications.
In comparison, Nigerian applications dropped by 46%, totaling 1,590, more than any other country.
According to data from the UK Universities and College Admissions Service (UCAS), UK undergraduate student applicants for the 2024-25 academic year are down 1% from the previous year. However, the total number of applicants remains far higher than pre-pandemic levels.
“While today’s data shows a decline in applications from mature students, which will be more keenly felt in some subjects such as nursing, we know that these applicants are more likely to apply later in the cycle,” Dr. Jo Saxton, the chief executive of UCAS, stated.
“For those students who missed the deadline or are still indecisive about their future steps into higher education, they can still apply until June 30, and then immediately to Clearing, where many of options remain. The UCAS website provides a plethora of information, guidance, and tips to help people make informed decisions about their future,” she noted.
In December 2023, the Rishi Sunak-led administration announced a review of the Graduate Route visa, which would allow graduates to stay and get work experience in the UK for at least two years after graduating. According to analysts, anticipated changes in the UK’s immigration rules may weaken the appeal of UK universities to international students.
