Brexit 101: What Does It Mean For International Students?

On June 23, 2016, the United Kingdom announced its withdrawal from the European Union (EU). Brexit, as it is commonly known, has shaken the country’s political and economic landscape.

At the same time, it has spread much panic and uncertainty among international students in the UK. Many international students are concerned about how Brexit would affect their future.

Impact on tuition fees and financial aid

On 11 October, the government announced that EU students applying to study in the UK in autumn 2017 will remain eligible for the same loans and grants as domestic students. Furthermore, these conditions will apply for the entirety of a student’s course. If the UK leaves the EU during this time period, students won’t be subjected to new conditions.

At the same time, Student Finance Wales issued a similar statement. According to the statement, EU students studying in Wales or beginning studies in the academic year of 2017-18 will remain eligible for the same loans and grants.

Furthermore, the government made another announcement regarding Research Council studentships for EU students. Students from EU commencing studies in the 2017-18 academic year will remain eligible for the research studentship. It is important to note this condition will apply for the full duration of their course.

In a nutshell, the short-term effects of Brexit on EU students will not be drastic. Students joining UK universities in the 2017-18 academic year will face similar fees and financial aid structure as before the Brexit vote. However, EU students may have to pay higher fee rates post 2017-18 academic year.

Impact on student visas  

EU students interested in studying and working in the UK in the future may have to comply with new rules and regulations.

It’s possible that they may have to apply for a Tier 4 student visa or a short-term study visa for studying in the UK. It is safe to say that international students should expect severe changes to the UK visa system.

But, keep in mind, Brexit will be enforced by April 2019. Until now, the country is a full member of the EU.

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