The UK government is considering allowing European Union students to pay the same university tuition fees as British students, as part of negotiations to rebuild relations between London and Brussels following Brexit.
The proposal could significantly reduce the cost of studying in the UK for EU citizens, who currently pay international student fees at British universities. These can exceed £30,000 a year for some courses, compared with just over £9,000 annually for British students in England.
The exact fees vary depending on the university and course.
Government considers compensation for universities
According to media reports, the UK government is prepared to provide British universities with up to £450 million a year to compensate for potential lost income resulting from lower tuition fees for EU students.
However, sources at the UK Treasury have stressed that the figure is indicative. It is based on a scenario involving a sharp increase in the number of EU students, meaning the final cost could be considerably lower.
British universities have expressed reservations about the proposal, warning that equalising fees without sufficient government funding could worsen their financial difficulties.
The Russell Group, which represents 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK, estimates that the cost could exceed £500 million.
UK seeks access to EU’s ‘Made in Europe’ initiative
The UK government is also expected to seek a significant concession from Brussels in return for reducing tuition fees for EU students.
It wants British businesses to be allowed to participate in the EU’s proposed ‘Made in Europe’ initiative, which aims to strengthen European industry by giving priority to products manufactured within Europe.
The initiative is intended to protect jobs, improve competitiveness and reduce reliance on third countries, particularly China. It covers sectors including the automotive industry, steel production and clean energy technologies.
London is concerned that excluding British companies could affect the country’s industry, exports and investment. It therefore views the proposed reduction in university fees as part of a wider economic cooperation agreement with the EU.
Preparatory discussions are taking place ahead of the UK-EU summit scheduled for November 20 in Brussels.
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