Lana Oconnell
The classification of international students as immigrants is a highly debated topic, with varying definitions and policies across different countries. In the context of the United Kingdom, the inclusion of international students in immigration numbers has been a strategy to maintain low overall immigration, particularly following Brexit. This approach has been criticized for creating a hostile environment for international students and negatively impacting the university sector. On the other hand, the United States refers to international students as nonimmigrants, indicating a temporary presence in the country for a specific purpose. International students in the U.S. are typically on non-immigrant visas, such as F-1 or M-1, and are considered non-resident aliens for tax purposes during their initial years of stay. The economic impact of international students is significant, contributing billions of dollars to the UK and U.S. economies and driving enrollment increases in higher education.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students in the UK | 97% of international students leave the UK after graduating |
| International students in the US | International students comprise more than 5% of all students in higher education |
| Immigrant students in the US | First- and second-generation immigrant students make up 1/3 of students enrolled in higher education |
| US government terminology | The US government uses the term "nonimmigrant" to refer to international students |
| International students' visa status in the US | International students on F1 visas are considered "non-resident aliens" for tax purposes |
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What You'll Learn
- International students in the UK are considered immigrants, which keeps overall immigration numbers low
- % of international students leave the UK after graduating, reducing immigration numbers
- International students in the US are considered nonimmigrants, or legal resident aliens
- International students contribute positively to the UK economy
- International students in the US comprise more than 5% of all students in higher education
International students in the UK are considered immigrants, which keeps overall immigration numbers low
International students have long been a significant contributor to the UK's economy and higher education sector. In recent years, the UK government has set ambitious targets to increase the number of international students hosted in the country, with the aim of boosting the value of education exports and cross-subsidising shortfalls in university budgets.
The UK's immigration policy has been a highly debated topic, particularly in the context of Brexit. While some politicians advocate for a tough immigration stance, others argue that including international students in immigration numbers creates an unwelcoming environment and harms the university sector. Prime Minister Theresa May has been a key figure in this debate, supporting the inclusion of international students in immigration statistics and opposing their exclusion.
By classifying international students as immigrants, the UK government can effectively manage overall immigration numbers. This approach enables the government to control the number of non-student immigrants entering the country while maintaining the target intake of international students. In 2022, the UK issued a record-breaking number of sponsored study visas, with approximately 484,000 visas granted.
However, it is important to note that the majority of international students are not permanent immigrants. Typically, an immigrant is defined as someone who leaves their country to settle permanently in another country. In contrast, the vast majority of international students have a temporary stay and return to their home countries after completing their studies. New evidence reveals that 97% of international students leave the UK after graduation, indicating that their inclusion in immigration numbers does not necessarily lead to a substantial increase in long-term immigration.
The impact of the UK's immigration policies on the higher education sector is complex. While the country has successfully attracted a large number of international students, with over 600,000 international higher education students in the 2020/21 academic year, there are signs of a potential decrease in international student numbers in 2023 and 2024. This could be influenced by various factors, including changes in visa requirements, competition from other countries, and the perception of the UK as a hostile environment for international students.
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97% of international students leave the UK after graduating, reducing immigration numbers
International students are considered immigrants in the UK. Former Prime Minister Theresa May has been criticised for her stance on this issue, with some arguing that it harms the university sector and creates a hostile environment for international students. However, May's motivation was to keep immigration numbers low following Brexit.
In the UK, international students are only granted temporary visas, which do not provide a direct route to settlement. While some international students may wish to remain in the UK after graduating, the majority do not. Recent figures show that 97% of international students leave the UK after graduating, reducing immigration numbers. This is a significant statistic, as it indicates that the UK's immigration policies are effective in ensuring that the majority of international students comply with the terms of their visas.
The UK's Graduate Visa program allows students to stay in the UK for two years after graduation or three years if they are a PhD graduate. This visa provides an opportunity for students to live and work at any skill level. The introduction of this visa has made it easier for graduating students to remain in the UK, and the number of visas granted has increased rapidly. In 2023, 144,000 Graduate visas were granted, more than doubling the number from the previous year.
Despite the availability of the Graduate Visa, the majority of international students still choose to leave the UK after completing their studies. This may be due to a variety of factors, including the desire to return to their home country or the impact of the UK's immigration policies, which some perceive as unwelcoming.
The impact of international students on the UK economy is significant. They generate more than £25 billion and support over 200,000 jobs. Some researchers argue that it is beneficial for the UK when international students remain in the country after graduating, as they contribute valuable skills and knowledge. However, others argue that the UK also benefits when international students return to their home countries, as they can become ambassadors for the UK and enhance the country's soft power.
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International students in the US are considered nonimmigrants, or legal resident aliens
The United States has a strong tradition of welcoming immigrant and international students. Immigrant-origin students make up a large and diverse community in the US, with first- and second-generation immigrants accounting for 32% of all students in higher education. International students make up more than 5% of all students in higher education and about 27% of students at the graduate level.
There are two nonimmigrant visa categories for people wishing to study in the US: the F and M visas. The F visa is for academic study, language training, or vocational training, while the M visa is for non-academic or vocational study. The F visa has two subcategories: F-1 for international students pursuing a full course of academic or professional study, and F-2 for spouses or qualifying children of F-1 students. To obtain an F or M visa, students must be enrolled in a program at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school. Once accepted, the school will send a Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status," which is required for the rest of the international student life cycle.
International students in the US on F or M visas can take advantage of certain benefits, such as applying for a driver's license, practical training opportunities, and employment opportunities. However, after completing their program, F students must depart the US within 60 days, and M students within 30 days, unless they are eligible to remain under other circumstances.
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International students contribute positively to the UK economy
Whether international students are considered immigrants is a highly debated topic. While some politicians have refused to acknowledge the distinction between the two, data suggests that 97% of international students leave the UK after graduating, lowering overall immigration numbers.
The positive impact of international students is felt across the UK, with students in Glasgow, London, Sheffield, Nottingham, and Newcastle making the greatest financial contributions. On average, each of the 650 parliamentary constituencies in the UK benefits from a £58 million net economic impact due to international students, equivalent to approximately £560 per citizen. This contribution is even more significant when considering that international students are allowed to work during their studies, with many taking on part-time jobs while enrolled in full-time degree courses.
The UK's ability to attract international students is a testament to the global appeal of its higher education institutions. In 2021/22, 381,000 first-year international students enrolled in UK universities, with London welcoming 98,825 new students, followed by Yorkshire and the Humber with 31,360. The presence of international students not only enriches the academic experience for all learners but also creates a positive global impact by addressing pressing worldwide challenges.
In conclusion, international students make a significant and diverse contribution to the UK economy, both directly and indirectly. Their presence strengthens the UK's higher education sector and generates substantial economic activity, benefiting businesses and communities across the country.
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International students in the US comprise more than 5% of all students in higher education
International students are not considered immigrants, as they do not intend to settle in the US permanently. The US government uses the term "nonimmigrant" to refer to foreign nationals admitted to the country temporarily for a specific purpose. Once a nonimmigrant fulfills their purpose, they need to either change their status or depart the country. International students are included in this category, and they are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies.
The inclusion of international students in immigration numbers can impact a country's perception and policies. For example, the UK has seen a decrease in international student numbers, which some attribute to a hostile environment created by tough immigration policies. Prime Minister Theresa May's focus on keeping immigration numbers low may have contributed to this perception, as she included international students in the immigration figures. However, critics argue that this approach is detrimental to the university sector and creates an unwelcoming atmosphere for international students.
International students make significant contributions to the US. They drive an increase in overall enrollment figures and enrich the educational experience for all students through their global perspectives. Additionally, they provide economic and social benefits to their schools and local communities. The US has a strong legacy of welcoming international students, recognizing their value in strengthening America's higher education community.
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Frequently asked questions
In the UK, international students are considered immigrants. Former Prime Minister Theresa May has been criticized for this stance as it is believed to be harmful to the university sector and creates a hostile environment for international students.
In the US, international students are considered nonimmigrants or "non-resident aliens." They are admitted to the country temporarily for a specific purpose—in this case, education. Once they fulfill their purpose, they need to either change their status or depart the country.
International students in the US typically hold an F1 visa, which is a non-immigrant visa. There are also M-1 visas, and F and M students may be eligible for certain benefits.
International students have a significant economic impact on the UK. For example, students from countries like India add over $30 billion to the UK economy annually, which is a benefit that exceeds ten times its cost.
