Studying a Master’s in Management in the UK: Less Appealing?

The United Kingdom has long been a beacon for international students. With its rich history, diverse communities, and globally renowned universities, the UK continues to attract students from around the world, including those pursuing a Master’s in Management (MiM) degree. 

However, recent changes in immigration laws and policies have introduced challenges for international students considering the UK as their study destination. In January, the UK government barred international students from bringing family with them unless they are on a postgraduate research course, such as a PhD. 

Policymakers are also reviewing the post-study work route, which grants international students the option to stay and work in the UK for two years after graduation. That has been a significant attraction, however both moves have already dimmed the appeal of the UK to overseas students. 

A recent study released by the Chartered Association of Business Schools found a notable decrease in international student enrollments within UK business schools. CABS attributes this decline primarily to the immigration policies implemented by the government. 

The recruitment of non-EU international students has been severely affected. According to the study’s findings, enrollments for the January 2024 intake have plummeted by 76 percent compared to the same period a year earlier.

Benefits of studying in the UK

Undoubtedly, there are numerous benefits to pursuing a MiM degree in the UK. British business schools are renowned. A Master’s degree from a UK institution holds prestige and is recognized worldwide. 

Studying in the UK offers more than just academic growth; it provides an opportunity for cultural immersion. The UK is a hub of international connections, with students from various backgrounds converging in its business schools. 

London Business School, for example, attracts over 100 nationalities to campus, providing opportunities to collaborate and network with peers from around the world, which can open doors to career opportunities. A MiM program in the UK exposes you to diverse perspectives and business practices from around the world. This global outlook is valuable in today’s interconnected business environment.

“Studying in the UK offers a great opportunity for being geographically mobile and recruiting within the UK – a melting pot of cultures,” says Paul Harvey, executive director of recruitment and admissions at London Business School, which runs a top-ranked MiM program. 

The UK and London especially is one of the world’s leading financial and business centers, with opportunities to connect with industry professionals, attend industry conferences and participate in events that can enrich students’ academic experience and career prospects. 

“Many UK business schools have strong ties to industry and offer opportunities for internships, placements and networking events with leading companies,” says George Alexandridis, head of pre-experience postgraduate programs at Henley Business School, near Reading in southern England. 

Challenges for international students

Despite the allure of studying in the UK, recent changes in immigration laws pose challenges for international students. The UK government’s ban on them bringing family members on most courses can be a significant deterrent for those who wish to study alongside their loved ones. 

Alexandridi says: “It has had little direct impact for most MiM programs in reputable business schools, since very few sought to bring family members along. 

“However, the move has sent a negative signal about potential further future interventions, which has negatively impacted the UK’s attractiveness as a destination for international students – and in particular from countries in South Asia, where one of the deciding factors is a post-study visa.”

The UK’s post-study work visa is currently under review. The potential changes to this graduate route create uncertainty for students over their future prospects in the UK job market. This uncertainty has already discouraged some students from choosing the UK as their study destination, the CABs survey showed. 

According to the poll, nine in 10 business school deans agreed that recent government policy announcements have negatively affected their school’s capacity to attract international students.

Navigating the landscape

While these challenges are significant, it’s important to stress the opportunities that studying in the UK can offer. International students can navigate these challenges by carefully researching options before making a decision, seeking support networks within their academic community and exploring career pathways beyond the post-study work visa. 

“Our MiM degree is a pre-experience program and our students have historically not needed to use this visa route,” says Harvey, at London Business School. “Our students utilize networks around the world to understand international job markets. Just under half of our MiM students secure employment in the UK within three months of graduation.” 

At Henley, the business school offers guidance and support services to help international students navigate visa application processes and understand the implications of policy changes.

Recognizing the potential financial strain that visa and immigration policies may impose on international students, Henley also offers a large number of scholarships to help mitigate costs associated with visa applications, travel and living expenses. 

On balance, studying a MiM in the UK presents both opportunities and challenges for international students. While recent changes in immigration laws may raise concerns, the UK’s academic excellence, cultural richness and global opportunities continue to make it an attractive study destination.