A new study has claimed that foreign students attending London Universities have given a £3 billion boost to the British economy, as well as helped support 37,000 jobs.
Over 100,000 students from abroad have enrolled at Universities in London, both undergraduates and postgraduates, equally. According to the report, it is claimed that each student has contributed an average of £15,141 to the economy, through their student fees, daily living costs, as well as visits to family and friends during the academic year of 2013-14.
The report suggests that Chinese students made the biggest contribution with £407 million of spending, followed by the US with £217 million, and India with £130 million.
Foreign students in London make up 23% of foreign students in the UK. There are 13,460 Chinese students in London, which has increased by 72% in ten years. There are 4,790 Indian students in London.
Compared to four years back, the total expenditures have risen by 18%, which has almost doubled in the past ten years.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson said, “London's Universities help to make the capital a thought-provoking, stimulating and breathtaking city which provides a learning experience in itself. I urge this year's intake of international students to make the absolute most of their time here. Visit our iconic theatres and galleries, take in out amazing museums, learn from our greatest minds and inspire others to follow in your footsteps.”
