Review: International students do not have an unfair advantage

The study commissioned by Universities UK found “no concerns” about universities lowering entry requirements for international students seeking to take foundation courses. The move follows accusations that universities had lowered their standards to attract foreign students who pay higher tuition fees.

The study concluded that entry requirements for international students were generally equivalent to those for UK students on equivalent courses. However, it noted that international students had more opportunities to re-sit exams than A-level students.

The Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), which assessed programmes at 34 participating universities, found that providers met published entry requirements and that international programmes were similar to those for UK students. The vast majority of students on both types of course were considered to have achieved an appropriate standard.

In particular, universities should regularly assess the progress of international students against that of domestic students and standardise assessment practices for foundation programmes. Vivienne Stern, chief executive of Universities UK, stressed the importance of maintaining fair admissions processes to give students confidence.

The Russell Group, which represents 24 prestigious universities, has reiterated its commitment to a fair admissions system and quality education. Media reports earlier this year raised concerns about international students using “backdoor routes” to gain admission to these universities, which the group described as misleading.

The increase in the number of international students in recent years has been attributed to an increase in applications for postgraduate degrees, rather than the undergraduate courses typically taken by British students. Universities can charge higher tuition fees to international students because their fees are not capped like those of domestic students.

Overall, the findings of the study aim to reassure students and the public that university admissions processes are fair and transparent, and that prompt action will be taken to address any concerns.