Curious about the number of international students in UK this year? Well, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the latest statistics, trends, and insights into the UK education system for 2025.
The UK has long been a hub for education, attracting students from all corners of the globe. With its prestigious universities and diverse range of courses, it’s no wonder that how many international students in UK currently choose to study here is a top question. But just how many international students are currently hitting the books in the UK? Let’s break it down by exploring the percentage of international students in UK universities and comparing that to the number of students in UK universities overall. By understanding the how many university students in the UK, we can better grasp the scale and impact of international education in Britain today.
Contents
- 1 Latest Number of Students in the UK
- 2 Student Numbers in the UK by Country
- 3 Student Numbers in the UK by Cities
- 4 Top 10 UK Universities with Highest International Students
- 5 Student Numbers in the UK by Gender
- 6 Student Numbers in the UK by Age Groups
- 7 Factors Influencing International Student Numbers
Latest Number of Students in the UK
As of 2025, there are approximately 600,000 international students studying in the UK. These students come from various countries and choose the UK for its world-class education and vibrant cultural experience.
Student Numbers in the UK by Country
International students in the UK hail from numerous countries. Here are the top 10 nationalities:
- China, 120,000 students
- India, 100,000 students
- Nigeria, 40,000 students
- United States, 20,000 students
- Malaysia, 18,000 students
- Hong Kong, 15,000 students
- Pakistan, 14,000 students
- Saudi Arabia, 13,000 students
- Vietnam, 12,000 students
- Germany, 11,000 students
Student Numbers in the UK by Cities
International students are spread across various UK cities, with some cities being more popular than others:
- London, 150,000 students
- Manchester, 50,000 students
- Birmingham, 45,000 students
- Edinburgh, 30,000 students
- Glasgow, 25,000 students
- Liverpool, 20,000 students
- Bristol, 15,000 students
- Sheffield, 15,000 students
- Leeds, 14,000 students
- Nottingham, 13,000 students
Read More: Studying in London
Top 10 UK Universities with Highest International Students
- University College London (UCL),25,000 students
- University of Manchester, 23,000 students
- King’s College London, 20,000 students
- University of Edinburgh, 18,000 students
- University of Glasgow, 17,000 students
- Imperial College London, 16,000 students
- University of Birmingham, 15,000 students
- University of Liverpool, 14,000 students
- University of Leeds, 13,000 students
- University of Nottingham, 12,000 students
Student Numbers in the UK by Gender
The gender distribution among international students in the UK is relatively balanced:
- Female Students, 54%
- Male Students, 46%
Student Numbers in the UK by Age Groups
International students in the UK come from various age groups, primarily focusing on higher education:
- Under 20 years, 20%
- 20-24 years, 50%
- 25-29 years, 20%
- 30 years and above, 10%
Factors Influencing International Student Numbers
Several factors contribute to the number of international students choosing to study in the UK:
Reputation and Quality of Education
The UK’s top universities consistently rank high globally, attracting students worldwide.
Cultural Diversity
The UK’s multicultural environment provides a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Recent changes in visa policies, allowing graduates to stay and work in the UK for two years post-graduation, have made the UK an even more attractive destination.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Various scholarships and financial support options make UK education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
Read More: Study in the UK Without an IELTS
