Nepal has long been a key recruitment market for countries like Australia and the UK, but recent trends show a growing preference among Nepalese students for studying in the UK. As the number of Nepalese students applying to UK universities rises, many more institutions are starting to explore the potential of this market.
With the UK offering a range of opportunities, it’s essential to understand why this shift is happening and whether it will continue in the future.
Growth in Nepalese Student Visas for the UK
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals that in the year ending March 2024, 9,003 Nepalese students were granted study visas for the UK. The number is expected to be even higher for subsequent intakes.
Enroly, a student recruitment platform, reported a 200% increase in the number of CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) issued for the January 2025 intake, a stark contrast to a 23% overall increase for the UK. In 2024, Nepal’s share of the total UK CAS issuance grew from 3% to 7%, highlighting the country’s rising importance as a source market for international students.
This surge in Nepalese students choosing the UK comes at a time when some British universities have seen declining demand from other international markets. Additionally, the UK government has imposed stricter student visa policies on countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka, which has driven Nepalese students to look elsewhere.
The Shift from Australia to the UK
Historically, Australia was a popular destination for Nepalese students, with over 60,000 Nepalese students enrolling there each year. However, new visa restrictions introduced by the Albanese government are pushing many Nepalese students to explore alternatives. One of the main factors in the decision to move to the UK is the difference in visa processes.
While Australia requires detailed financial documentation as proof of income, the UK allows students to demonstrate financial stability through a mature bank account, often supported by private student loans. This flexibility in the UK visa system is making it an attractive option for Nepalese students.
Enroly estimates that 78% of Nepalese students are now funded through education loans or a combination of loans and university discounts. This shift in funding sources is contributing to the increasing number of Nepalese students applying to study in the UK.
Affordable Fees and Scholarships
Despite the positive economic outlook in Nepal, with an estimated growth rate of 4.61% this fiscal year, Nepalese students remain sensitive to the cost of education. Many students and their families seek affordable options, and the UK offers an appealing solution.
Several British universities, particularly those in the ‘Million Plus’ and ‘Alliance’ groups, attract a large number of Nepalese students due to their lower annual fees, typically ranging from £11,500 to £13,500. These universities also offer scholarships, which further lower the financial burden on students.
Universities like BPP, the University of Sunderland, and Coventry University are among the biggest recruiters of Nepalese students. Many of these institutions also have partnerships with local providers, such as ISMT College and Softwarica College of IT and eCommerce, which create pathways for students to complete their final year in the UK or pursue master’s degrees directly after completing undergraduate studies in Nepal.
Acceptance of MOI Letters
Another key factor contributing to the growing number of Nepalese students in the UK is the widespread acceptance of MOI (Medium of Instruction) letters. These letters serve as proof that a student’s previous qualification was taught and assessed in English to a level accepted by UK universities, which means students do not have to take additional English language tests.
This policy has made the UK even more attractive to Nepalese students, as it saves both time and money.
The UK government is currently consulting with the education sector on how universities assess English language requirements for admissions. In the meantime, the use of MOI letters continues to benefit many Nepalese students.
The Role of Education Agents
Education agents play a vital role in helping Nepalese students navigate the application process. According to Enroly, 82% of the course deposits paid by Nepalese students for UK universities come through applications supported by an education agent.
These agents assist students in finding the right university, securing funding, and applying for visas, making the process smoother and more accessible.
In a competitive market, education agents also face challenges in meeting the growing demand for UK education, as more universities and students explore the benefits of studying abroad.
The UK’s appeal to Nepalese students is driven by a combination of factors, including affordable fees, flexible visa policies, and the ability to study in English-speaking institutions. As more Nepalese students choose the UK over other destinations like Australia, British universities are benefiting from this shift.
With continued demand and the UK government’s efforts to improve student experiences, it seems likely that the trend of Nepalese students choosing the UK will continue for the foreseeable future.
