London remains 'top choice' for international students

23 2007
London continues to draw in young people from near and far, with research revealing that international students contribute more than £1.5 billion to the city's economy every year.

Around 86,000 students from abroad are currently living in the capital, research carried out by Oxford Economics found, with many drawn by the city's reputation of academic excellence and vibrant nightlife.

These students not only paid around £560 million in tuition fees over the past year but also spent £800 million, while visits by friends and relatives during the period added a further £150 million to the economy.

The study also found that three-quarters of all international students in London do not receive a scholarship but pay their own fees, with a large proportion taking on part-time jobs to cover their rent and other living expenses.

Malcolm Gillies, vice-chancellor and president of City University London and London Higher Board member, said: "From an education in London you gain skills, cultural experiences and social interactions that few cities can rival."

London mayor Ken Livingstone also cited cultural diversity as a major factor in drawing overseas students to the city. ADNFCR-1219-ID-18367583-ADNFCR

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