Barack Obama’s historic election could hit the ability of British universities to recruit lucrative overseas students. Universities in the UK have benefited from the negative perception of America around the world since the September 11 terrorist attacks and the tightening of visa requirements that followed. But it is thought “4/11″ could be just as significant as “9/11″ in terms of its impact on international student recruitment, with many now choosing to attend American universities.


Tougher US visa restrictions that came in after the September 11 attacks have recently been lifted. American universities are actively trying to recruit overseas students once more, just as the British government tightens visa arrangements.

It is estimated that international students bring £3.5bn to UK universities each year and up to £10bn to the British economy as a whole.

Dominic Scott, chief executive of the UK Council for International Student Affairs, said there will inevitably be a shift in perception as a result of Obama’s victory that will work to the advantage of the US. “The Obama success puts us into a whole new chapter and 4/11 could well be as powerful and influential as 9/11.” He said the US would “without doubt” become more attractive as a destination, and UK institutions would have to raise their standard of service to hold on to current market share and avoid being “swept aside by the sleeping giant”.

“The government will also have to ensure that the new points-based system – together with biometrics and identity cards – is introduced as efficiently as possible and that visa charges continue to be held at current rates,” Scott said. On the other hand, Scott conceded, the political changes could also lead to an influx of more “open-minded” US students with a global perspective deciding to come to the UK to study.

Will Archer, director of i-Graduate which conducts surveys of international student recruitment, said the date of Obama’s election was significant as it would mark the start of a change in sentiment towards the US. But international students are an expanding market, so universities will not necessarily see an immediate impact

Pat Killingley, director of higher education at the British Council, said it was too early to predict the impact of the US election. “Obama’s policy on immigration and education is likely to be much more important than any feelgood factor coming from the election,” she said.

“These students are attracted here by the quality of the educational experience on offer, as well as the opportunity to take part in world class research.

“We continue to work with universities and colleges to improve the visibility of our higher education sector on the global stage, which is important for protecting and enhancing the supply of international students to the UK.”

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