Hi everyone!

Welcome to the December edition of Monthly Higher Education Briefing - a simple and clear update on what’s happening across higher education here in the UK, and what it means for you as a Coventry University student.

This briefing is here to help you stay informed, understand sector-wide changes, and feel confident about the year ahead - whether you’re a home or international student.

Throughout the academic year, we’ll take this briefing on tour to all Coventry University locations for an in-person event once a year. Our next in-person briefings will be at CU Coventry on 12 January & Coventry University main campus on 20 January (Time & Location - TBC)  - and we’d love to see you there!

Key Updates in Higher Education This Month:

Immigration & International Student Policy

• The Government has introduced a new immigration White Paper (report), signalling tighter rules around student visas, compliance, and post-study work.

• A new £925 annual levy per international student will apply from 2028/29, which may influence how universities plan finances and services.

• The Graduate Route stay-back period will be reduced from two years to 18 months for applications from 1 January 2027.

• From 11 November 2025, international students will need to show higher maintenance funds when applying for a visa.                                                                                                                                                         

Wider Sector Pressures: 

• UK universities continue to face financial strain due to rising costs and falling income in some areas.

• These pressures may shape how universities deliver services, invest in support, and prioritise resources in the coming years.

What This Means for You

For International Students:

• Visa changes mean planning ahead is essential - especially for documentation, finances, and post-study career planning.

• If you’re unsure how upcoming immigration policies may affect you, it’s a great time to reach out to the SU’s Advice team for guidance.

For Home (UK) Students:

• University changes nationally make student voice more important than ever - your feedback shapes how services develop.

• The Turing Scheme funding opens new chances for global experience, placements, and international exposure.

For Everyone:

• These changes highlight how important it is to stay informed. This monthly briefing will continue breaking things down into clear, student-friendly updates that you can trust.

Support Available

You can access support at any time through:

• SU Advice - for academic, housing, visa, or wellbeing concerns

• Talent Team - for CVs, placements, part-time work, and future planning

• Success Coaches & Library - for study support and skill development

If anything in this briefing affects you personally, reach out - you’re not alone in navigating these changes.

Coventry University Update :

Coventry University Group has secured £1 million through the Turing Scheme, helping more students study, work, or volunteer abroad.

This funding aims to expand global opportunities for both home and international students - more details will follow once official guidance is released.

Got a question? Want something explained next month?

This briefing is built with you and for you.

Submit topics via the online feedback platform.

Updates will be provided each month via yoursu.org.