UK moves to impose £1,200 charge on universities enrolling Nigerian, other foreign students

The United Kingdom is set to introduce a £1,200 levy on universities for each international student enrolled, including those from Nigeria, as part of measures affecting the country’s higher education sector.

According to Nairametrics, the proposed charge would place additional financial obligations on British universities recruiting students from overseas.

The development could have implications for Nigerian students seeking admission into UK institutions, particularly if universities transfer the additional costs to international applicants through higher tuition fees.

The levy comes amid tightening immigration policies and growing financial pressures on British universities, many of which depend heavily on international students for revenue.

UK institutions have also faced increased scrutiny over student visa applications, with stricter compliance requirements affecting recruitment from countries including Nigeria.

The proposed measure could further influence admission policies, tuition costs and the attractiveness of British universities to prospective foreign students.

AHowever, the extent to which universities would absorb the levy or pass it on to students remains unclear.