UK International Education Strategy 2026
What is the International Education Strategy (IES)?
On January 20, 2026, the UK government introduced a new plan called the International Education Strategy (IES).
In simple terms, this plan explains how the UK wants to:
- Increase education exports (earn more money from international education)
- Create skilled jobs
- Provide high-quality education
- Attract more international students
Moreover, this strategy is part of the government’s bigger “Plan for Change.” It shows how different government departments will work together to improve the UK’s global education position.
Who is Responsible for This Strategy?
The IES is managed by:
- The Foreign Office
- The Department for Education
- The Department for Business and Trade
In addition, other government departments are also supporting it.
So basically, it’s a combined effort by the UK government.
Main Goals of the International Education Strategy
The IES has three main goals.
Goal 1: Improve the UK’s Global Education Reputation
Firstly, the UK wants to strengthen its international image in education.
This includes:
- Increasing international research partnerships
- Expanding transnational education (TNE)
- Making UK degrees more recognized worldwide
- Giving UK students more chances to study, work, or volunteer abroad
As a result, the UK aims to become a stronger global education leader.
Goal 2: Attract High-Quality International Students
Secondly, the UK wants to recruit international students in a sustainable and responsible way.
The strategy calls international students “global changemakers.”
This means:
- Students should come from different countries (diversity)
- Recruitment should be fair and responsible
- Students should have a positive experience in the UK
Therefore, the focus is not just on increasing numbers, but also on quality and student satisfaction.
Goal 3: Increase Education Exports by 2030
Thirdly, the UK wants to increase education income from:
- £32.3 billion (2022)
to - £40 billion per year by 2030
To achieve this, the UK will:
- Build partnerships in countries like India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam
- Explore opportunities in Brazil, Mexico, and Pakistan
- Provide financial and practical support to UK education institutions
Consequently, education will become a bigger contributor to the UK economy.
What is Transnational Education (TNE)?
Additionally, the strategy highlights the importance of Transnational Education (TNE).
TNE means students can study a UK degree:
- At overseas campuses
- Through online programs
- Via joint programs
In fact, UK universities already offer degrees in 176 countries.
Because of this flexible model, more students worldwide can access UK education without moving to the UK.
How Will This Affect International Students?
No Immediate Immigration Changes
Importantly, the IES does not change any immigration laws.
However, it mentions some future developments.
Introduction of International Student Levy (From 2028)
Starting in August 2028, a new £925 yearly levy will apply.
Here’s what you need to know:
- The fee will be paid by institutions, not students
- It applies only to universities in England
- Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are excluded
Nevertheless, some institutions may increase tuition fees to adjust for this cost.
Focus on Student Support and Mobility
Furthermore, the strategy focuses on:
- Better student support systems
- Improved campus facilities
- Better access to housing
The government also plans to:
- Rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027
- Continue the Turing Scheme
- Support scholarships like:
- Chevening
- Commonwealth
- Marshall
- Fulbright
As a result, international mobility opportunities are expected to grow.
What Should Students Understand?
Finally, the IES should be seen as a roadmap, not a rulebook.
In other words:
- It shows the government’s direction and priorities.
- It does not automatically change laws.
- It signals that the UK wants to remain a top destination for international students.
Overall, the strategy aims to balance growth, quality, diversity, and global partnerships in UK education.
Get in touch with SPS Global
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