Cypriot and other European students could still see lower tuition fees at British universities, as negotiations between the United Kingdom and the European Union continue ahead of 20 November. However, opposition from major British universities and the financial state of the higher education sector are casting doubt over what any final agreement will contain.
Speaking on Wednesday on Politis Radio 107.6 & 97.6, on the programme “Second Look” with Andri Daniel, the president of the Cyprus Association of Educational Consultants, Adonis Amerikanos, said there is so far no clear picture of what a possible agreement would include. He added that there is no certainty the negotiations will be concluded on 20 November.
“Nobody knows what this agreement will be,” he said. He explained that the date may mark the beginning of a process that could eventually lead to lower fees for European students.
Opposition from Russell Group universities
According to Mr Amerikanos, major universities in the United Kingdom are pushing back, particularly institutions belonging to the Russell Group.
He explained that universities such as Imperial College and Cardiff University currently attract international students who pay tuition fees of £30,000 to £40,000 a year.
A reduction in fees for European students to the level paid by British students, approximately £9,700 to £10,000, could significantly affect their revenue.
Mr Amerikanos noted that lower fees do not necessarily make financial sense for universities, as many institutions are already facing financial difficulties. According to him, around half of the universities in Britain are under financial pressure, and the fees paid by domestic students do not always cover their operating costs.
Concerns among British students
Mr Amerikanos also referred to objections from some British students, who have taken on loans to fund their studies.
He explained that there are concerns about the possibility of European students being granted lower fees without equivalent benefits for domestic students.
For this reason, he said that even if an agreement is reached, it is not certain that it will provide for full equalisation of European fees with those paid by British students. He did not rule out a different formula that would reduce the cost of study without necessarily applying the same status.
Only around 10 universities still offer reduced fees
Mr Amerikanos made particular reference to universities that continued to offer lower fees to European students after Brexit.
According to him, their number has fallen significantly. Of the 25 to 30 universities that offered such arrangements in previous years, around 10 remain today.
He also noted that the rise in tuition fees after Brexit has considerably reduced the number of Europeans choosing to study in Britain.
What the UK is seeking in return
Mr Amerikanos linked the discussions on tuition fees to the wider negotiations between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
He said the British side is seeking concessions on matters such as the European “Made in Europe” initiative, as well as access to data relating to tackling irregular migration.
According to Mr Amerikanos, the negotiations concern a broader framework of cooperation and are not limited to education.
“I don’t know how the negotiations will go, or whether the Europeans are ready to give everything the British will ask for,” he said.
Advice for Cypriot students
Despite the uncertainty, Mr Amerikanos recommended that Cypriot students interested in studying in Britain begin researching universities now.
He explained that the prospect of the United Kingdom rejoining the Erasmus programme from 2027 may create the conditions for further agreements, including on tuition fees.
“This may come very soon, and we must be ready for it,” he said. He stressed that educational consultants, students and parents should all follow developments closely.
For the time being, no final decision has been taken on the level of tuition fees European students will pay at British universities in the coming years.
