Chartered ABS responds to the DfE’s technical consultation on the International Student Levy
The Chartered ABS has submitted its response to the Department for Education’s technical consultation on the International Student Levy.
Chartered ABS responds to the DfE’s technical consultation on the International Student Levy
The Chartered ABS has submitted its response to the Department for Education’s technical consultation on the International Student Levy.
In our response, we raised concerns about the scope of the levy, particularly the inclusion of students on joint and dual degrees, exchange programmes, placement years, foundation years, and PhD programmes. We have called for clearer exemptions for these students, as their inclusion could discourage international students from studying in the UK and undermine the UK’s global education partnerships, running counter to the International Education Strategy.
We are also concerned that the proposed two week withdrawal exemption is too short and should be extended to at least 12 weeks to avoid placing unfair financial burdens on providers.
In addition, we highlighted practical challenges in calculating and invoicing the levy, particularly for institutions with January intakes. The levy methodology must avoid double counting students, and the Government must provide greater clarity on the appeals process and ensure payment schedules are aligned with university cash flow cycles.
Finally, we warned that the levy may reduce international student recruitment and place further financial strain on business schools, which educate a significant proportion of the UK’s international students. We urge the Government to consider the potential unintended consequences for the sector and to consult with providers on the use of levy funds, particularly in relation to maintenance grants, for which domestic business and management students should be eligible.