London universities increase appeal to Chinese students

The number of Chinese students at London universities increased last year, according to new data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency.

The total number of international students enrolled at universities in the UK capital in 2018-19 was 125,035, up 5.8 percent from the previous year.

China remains London's largest international student market. The number of students from the Chinese mainland rose to 25,650, a 20.4 percent jump from the previous year.

Students from the United States in London saw a growth of 5.8 percent to stay in second position, and India was London's third-largest international student market after falling to fourth position three years earlier. The number of students from India grew by 34.7 percent in 2018-19.

"I'm delighted to see so many young people from across the world choosing London to pursue their higher education. In doing so, they're becoming part of a global community that has produced some of the world's most exciting and innovative companies," said deputy Mayor of London, Rajesh Agrawal.

"With its world-leading universities, thriving business ecosystem and unrivalled cultural landscape, studying in London offers the opportunity to be part of a city at the forefront of creativity and innovation."

The number of students from France studying in London grew 3.9 percent and the number of German students jumped by 4.4 percent. France is now ranked 5th and Germany 7th in London's student market. The number of Italian students in London dropped by 1.2 percent, and Italy dropped to 4th place in the rankings.

Lalage Clay, director of education and talent at London & Partners which runs Study London, said: "Whether it's fashion or financial economics, accountancy or art history, prospective international students know when they choose London, they are choosing a first-class education and a cultural experience like no other."

The Higher Education Statistics Agency figures also show that more students from China choose to study in the UK than any other overseas country. In 2018-19, 35 percent of all non-EU students were from China.

There were 286,235 international students in the UK in 2019, according to the British Council.

It is thought the rise in overseas applications is due to the UK government's recent reintroduction of the two-year post-study visa for international students, allowing overseas graduates a longer period of time to look for employment after their studies.