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International nursing students are an integral part of the UK’s future workforce. Whilst the number of UK applicants to nursing courses has declined, the number of international applicants is increasing, with 2,970 applicants in 2025 marking a 26% increase compared to the previous year. However, international students face many challenges in the UK and must go through the rigorous and emotionally challenging process of pre-registration nursing training while living far from their families and loved ones.

Additionally, university fees for international students are not capped in the same way as the fees of domestic students are, which means that international students are subject to higher fees which vary across universities. International students also face further financial challenges as their visa permits them to only work 20-hours a week and are unable to access public funds. Many international students face racism and discrimination in their universities and during their placements.

References

Bolton P, Lewis J and Gower M (2024) International students in UK higher education. Available at:

UCAS (2025) 2025 Cycle Applicant Figures – 29 January Deadline. Available at:

Aidamoisa F (2024) International students: rising above the challenges. Available at: rcn.org.uk/magazines/People/2024/Sep/Dont-let-your-confidence-be-shaken