A total of 1,425 international students admitted to UK universities were reportedly denied entry at the country’s airports. According to data obtained from the UK Home Office through the Freedom of Information Act, this happened between 2021 and 2023. The data shines a spolight on the challenges faced by students from various countries upon arrival in the UK.
Among those affected, were 161 Nigerian students, representing 11.3% of the total. Indian students were hardest hit, accounting for 644 removals, or 45% of all cases. Students from Ghana and Bangladesh also faced significant entry refusals, making up 6.46% and 6.32% of the total, respectively.
The data, which covers the period from October 2021 to October 2023, specifically addresses students who were refused entry at the UK border. It does not include cases of deportation due to visa violations such as exceeding work hours or engaging in academic misconduct. The UK Home Office did not provide specific reasons for these entry refusals.
However, sources suggest that students were often denied entry due to their inability to convince Border Force officers during immigration checks, the presentation of forged documents, or difficulties with English language proficiency.
Immigration lawyer Dele Olawanle has criticized this practice, arguing that Border Force officers are overstepping their authority by questioning students about their academic courses, sometimes resulting in the cancellation of their visas.
Nelly Okechukwu, a data analyst, shared a similar experience. After a long flight, he was questioned by a border officer about his university studies, despite having graduated years earlier. This incident underscores the growing concerns about the treatment of international students at UK borders.
The increasing number of entry refusals has sparked debate over the fairness and consistency of the UK’s immigration policies, particularly regarding international students who contribute significantly to the country’s academic and economic landscape.
