Tuesday 6 October 2026

African students faces $53 million budget squeeze as tighter visa rules hit international recruitment

The University of Sunderland is seeking to cut £40 million ($53 million) from its annual budget as tighter UK visa rules and rising refusals reduce the number of international students it can recruit, raising concerns for thousands of African students who make up a significant part of its overseas population.

By BIA, Olamilekan OkebiorunOriginally published October 3, 2026October 6, 2026 2 min read

African students faces $53 million budget squeeze as tighter visa rules hit international recruitment — Far-right activists hold an Enough is Enough protest in Sunderland on August 02, 2024 in Sunderland, England. [Getty Images]

The University of Sunderland needs to cut £40 million from its annual budget due to reduced international student recruitment affected by stricter UK visa rules.

African students, especially from Nigeria, Ghana, and Botswana, make up a large part of Sunderland's overseas population and will be heavily impacted by these changes.

The university already withdrew 69 offers to Myanmar applicants and reported an overall rise in visa refusals, forcing a permanent budget reduction plan.

African students are crucial to Sunderland's recruitment, with Nigerians being the largest international group after UK students, so any further tightening will significantly impact the university’s income and diversity.

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Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom have been among the OECD countries with the strongest growth in international student enrolment over the last decade. International students have significantly contributed to enrolment growth, shaped campus life and, in some countries, institutional finances. This report examines the journey and challenges of international students, from choosing where and what to study and obtaining a study visa/permit, to adapting academically, finding housing, integrating into local communities, progressing in their studies and navigating post-graduation pathways. After strong growth through the 2010s and a rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic, international student mobility is entering a more uncertain phase, with some countries tightening policies while others continue to expand international enrolment. By comparing six major OECD study destinations, the report highlights both shared challenges and emerging policy responses. It provides timely evidence on trends, challenges and policy responses related to international student enrolment at a time of growing public and policy attention. It is relevant for policymakers, higher education institutions and other stakeholders.

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