University of Edinburgh to Cut £140 Million Amid Drop in International Students

By Kai March 8, 2025
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The University of Edinburgh has announced plans to cut £140 million in response to severe financial difficulties, partly driven by a decline in international student enrolment in the United Kingdom. The decision, described as a “necessary but radical step” by Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, aims to address falling income and rising operational costs.

In a statement released on 28 February, Mathieson warned that the university is projected to run at a deficit in the coming years, making these cost-cutting measures unavoidable. The financial shortfall accounts for nearly 10% of the university’s annual turnover, a figure comparable to other higher education institutions in the UK.

To bridge the gap, the university will implement “sustainable cuts”, review capital expenditures, and leverage assets to generate additional revenue. However, Mathieson acknowledged that the measures would have a “devastating” impact.

Factors contributing to the university’s financial strain include stagnant teaching income, rising utility bills, inflation, unexpected changes in National Insurance contributions, and increasing employment costs. Additionally, the UK’s declining appeal to international students has further exacerbated the situation.

The University of Edinburgh aims to restore financial stability by the 2026–27 academic year, with Mathieson assuring staff that the institution will emerge stronger despite the challenges.
This development comes amid growing concerns about the financial health of universities across the United Kingdom, as institutions increasingly rely on international student fees to sustain their operations.

Source: THE INDIAN EXPRESS

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