Reports suggest that Nigerian students are applying less to UK universities due to the weakening of the naira and visa restrictions that prevent them from bringing their dependents or close family members along. According to the report, Nigerian students had the highest number of dependents amongst international students in September 2023. Indian student applications also decreased by 4% compared to the previous year, totaling 8,770 applications.
However, Nigerian applications saw a sharp decline of 46%, amounting to only 1,590 applications, more than any other country. Data from the UK Universities and College Admissions Service (UCAS) revealed a 1% decline in UK applicants for the 2024-25 academic year compared to the previous year.
Although there was a decline in mature student applications, UCAS expects these applicants to apply later in the cycle. The deadline for applications is June 30, and applicants can still apply directly to Clearing afterwards. In December 2023, the Rishi Sunak-led government announced a review of the Graduate Route visa, allowing graduates to stay and gain work experience in the UK for at least two years after completing their degree. Changes to the UK’s visa policy may reduce the appeal of UK universities to overseas students.