Brexit fundamentally changed how EU students come to the UK to study. Free movement ended, and EU nationals now navigate the same visa system as other international students. For prospective students, understanding the current policies—from tuition fees to post-study work opportunities—is essential. Here’s an up-to-date look at how Brexit has reshaped student immigration for EU students in the UK.
1. Visa Requirements: Applying as an EU Student
Since Brexit, EU, EEA, and Swiss students who did not already have settled or pre-settled status must apply for a Student visa to study in the UK. They no longer benefit from the visa-free or “free movement” rights that existed prior to 2021.
As of January 2025, the UK switched to a fully digital visa system (eVisa), replacing physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs). Students need to set up a UKVI account to access their eVisa and generate a “share code,” which they can use to prove their immigration status to landlords, employers, or universities.
2. Cost of Living & Financial Requirements
EU students must still demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves while studying. As of mid-2025, the required maintenance funds have increased: for London-based courses, students must show £1,483 per month (for up to nine months), and £1,136 per month for courses outside London. These funds must be held in a bank account for at least 28 consecutive days.
3. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
EU students staying in the UK for more than six months are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which gives them access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). In some cases, full or partial refunds are available if the student holds a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from before Brexit and meets certain conditions.
4. Tuition Fees: No More “Home” Rate for New EU Students
One of the biggest impacts of Brexit is on university fees. Before Brexit, many EU students paid home (domestic) tuition rates. Now, most new EU students are charged international fees, which are significantly higher. This has been a major factor behind a steep decline in the number of EU students enrolling in UK higher education.
5. Post-Study Work Options: The Graduate Route
EU students who graduate from UK universities still have access to the Graduate Route visa, often called the post-study work visa. This visa allows them to stay in the UK to work or look for work after completing their degree—without needing a job offer or employer sponsorship.
However, from mid-2025, the duration of this post-study visa is being reduced: for bachelor’s and master’s graduates, it will drop from 24 months to 18 months. PhD and other doctoral graduates are expected to continue getting up to three years of post-study stay.
6. English Language & Dependants
New rules are also tightening English language requirements for some visa routes. According to recent updates, students (and their dependants) will need to meet a B2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which is more demanding than earlier B1-level requirements.
Moreover, fewer students will be able to bring dependants (family members). Recent policy changes restrict dependants primarily to those on research programmes, rather than taught courses.
7. Impact on EU Student Numbers
The effects of these changes are already visible: EU student numbers have dropped sharply since Brexit. Between the academic years 2020/21 and 2023/24, the number of new EU entrants fell by about 57%. For many EU students, the jump in fees, visa costs, and tighter post-study rights are significant barriers.
8. Key Takeaways for EU Students Considering the UK
-
EU students now need a visa just like non-EU internationals.
-
They must demonstrate funds, pay the IHS, and may use their eVisa to prove status.
-
They are likely to pay higher (international) tuition fees.
-
Post-graduation work rights remain, but the Graduate Route is being shortened.
-
English language requirements are stricter, and bringing family is more difficult.
Final Thoughts
Brexit erased the old system of free movement, and for EU students, the UK is now very much a part of the international student landscape. Though studying in the UK is still a popular and globally respected choice, the cost, visa paperwork, and post-study options are more limited than they were before 2021. For EU students looking to study in the UK now, careful planning and understanding of these new immigration rules are more important than ever.