Total revenue from education-related exports and transnational education (TNE) activity in 2021 amounted to £27.90 billion, up from £26.2 billion in 2020. Higher Education accounted for 77.9% of the total value of education-related exports and TNE activity in 2021, marking a 0.9 percentage point increase from 2020. The total percentage increase in education-related exports and TNE activity from 2020 to 2021 was 6.2%, reflecting a 5.5 percentage point increase from 2019 to 2020.

In 2021, the total revenue from education-related exports and transnational education (TNE) activity in the UK reached £27.90 billion, indicating a 6.23% increase compared to 2020 figures in current prices. Over the decade since 2010, the estimated revenue from education-related exports and TNE activity in the UK has surged by 75.72% in current prices.

Specifically, the total education-related exports in the UK were estimated at £25.50 billion in 2021, reflecting a 72.23% increase in current prices since 2010. Concurrently, UK TNE activity was valued at £2.4 billion in 2021, experiencing a growth of 123.90% in current prices since 2010, although starting from a lower base.

These figures underscore the substantial contribution of international students to the UK, with their presence contributing £21.7 billion to UK exports in 2021. However, concerns arise regarding the declining attractiveness of the UK as a study destination, evidenced by a 5.5% decrease in study visas issued in 2023. Uncertainty looms due to the government’s plan to review the Graduate route, potentially dissuading prospective students and universities alike. Nearly half (45%) of prospective students express reconsideration of their study destination if the post-study work offer is limited.

Universities play a vital role in driving growth, innovation, and prosperity. Diminishing the attractiveness of the UK to international students risks undermining the contributions of both institutions and international students to communities across the UK.