Navigating the Cost-of-Learning Crisis: What Universities Can Do to Support International Students

The topic of affordability in higher education is never far from our minds, but what about the specific challenges international students face? A recent report from the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), entitled “How to Beat the Cost of Learning Crisis: Universities’ Support for Students,” exposes some uncomfortable truths.

HEPI’s report brings to light the paradox that international students, despite having to prove sufficient funds before securing a university spot, are often identified as ‘at risk’ of facing financial hardship. As the report’s author, Josh Freeman, expresses, “the irony is palpable.”

HEPI’s findings show that 82% of UK universities have a ‘cost of living hub’ on their websites, yet 15% lack any single point of information access for students. This lack of information is not just an inconvenience; it can be a make-or-break factor for international students evaluating their options.

The HEPI report uncovers a particularly alarming trend: the emergence of companies loaning money to international students solely to meet university eligibility requirements. This not only exposes students to potential financial ruin but also perpetuates a system where eligibility is more about financial acrobatics than actual preparedness. As Josh Freeman astutely remarks, “This raises ethical questions that universities and policymakers cannot afford to ignore.”

While the focus of the HEPI report is on international students, it’s worth considering the indirect impact on domestic students. Universities that fail to adequately support international students risk a decline in global rankings and reputation. The loss of diverse perspectives can also impoverish the academic experience for all students. So, this isn’t just an ‘international issue’—it has repercussions that can affect the entire academic community.

With a growing reliance on digital platforms for student recruitment and support, universities have a golden opportunity to address the challenges outlined in the HEPI report. Imagine an all-encompassing digital hub where international students can find tailored financial advice, currency exchange rates, part-time job listings, and even peer reviews of local accommodation. Such a platform could revolutionise the way we address the financial challenges faced by international students, making the application process more transparent and less daunting.

For those of us in the realm of student recruitment and admissions, HEPI’s report offers several points of reflection:

In summary, while the cost of higher education continues to be a universal concern, the particular challenges faced by international students demand immediate attention. As Freeman aptly notes, “Universities must evolve to close these gaps, or risk becoming out of touch with an increasingly international student body.”

If this discussion has piqued your interest and you’re keen to dig deeper into the intricacies of the financial challenges facing international students, the full HEPI report is an invaluable resource. Written by Josh Freeman, the report provides a comprehensive analysis and presents actionable recommendations for universities and policymakers alike. You can download the report here.