Reform UK has put forward a policy that would stop foreign students from taking out student loans, while also pushing a major expansion of apprenticeships. The party says the savings, which it estimates in the billions, could be used to grow apprenticeship programs for British businesses.
Suella Braverman, Reform UK's education spokesperson and former home secretary, said: "We estimate that we can save about £2 billion from stopping foreign students from accessing student loans, which are taxpayer-funded."
UK universities have pushed back against those comments, pointing out that most international students are not eligible for UK student finance. Vivienne Stern, chief executive of Universities UK, said: "International students are not eligible for UK student finance and they are not getting loans. The students that Braverman is targeting are lawful residents who have settled status to live and work here permanently."
Most international students cannot access UK government funding for their studies, though some may secure a loan if they have indefinite leave to remain or hold EU settled status. Irish students are also eligible for UK student loans. HESA data shows that in 2024/25, more students came to UK universities from Ireland than from any other EU country, but the number was just 9,800.
Stern added that international students make a significant economic contribution to the UK, worth around £62 million per parliamentary constituency. "Their fees ensure more opportunity for British students and support the innovative research that happens in towns and cities across the length and breadth of the country," she said.
The government will introduce a levy on international student tuition fees at English universities in 2028. The money raised will be ringfenced for maintenance loans for domestic students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Speaking at the press conference, Braverman criticised UK higher education. "We've got too many young people who are failing in our universities because they're falling for the great university scam, signing up to £50,000 of student debt… for what? To study pointless subjects at mediocre universities," she said.
Stern rejected that view, saying a degree still benefits most students. "For the majority of graduates, a degree pays off through higher average earnings, reduced likelihood of unemployment and a wider range of opportunities. Students should feel confident that their degree will set them up for a brighter future and equip them with skills they need to enter and succeed in the workforce," she said.
She also said: "Universities already offer a great deal of vocational and technical education and are working closely with employers so students develop the skills our economy desperately needs, whatever they choose to study. Many graduates who did creative or specialist degrees go on to have highly rewarding and successful careers."
