Afghan students blocked from applying to some UK unis amid rising concerns over Taliban governance

Several UK universities have decided to suspend applications from Afghan students, while others have imposed tighter restrictions, amid rising concerns over the Taliban’s governance.

The decision to suspend applications, which has been taken by several universities including Manchester, Bristol, Bournemouth, and Buckingham, comes at a time when the Home Office is increasing the number of visas it refuses for Afghan citizens due to political instability in the country.

A spokesperson from Bournemouth University said: “This difficult decision [was taken] to ensure we continue to uphold our responsibility to the UK Home Office as an approved sponsor for student visas.”

They added: “Every year we welcome students from around the world, but the UK has seen an increasing number of applicants from Iran and Afghanistan being refused visas, so we have suspended applications from these countries at this time.”

As the government attempts to reduce the number of students entering the UK on a study visa and then claiming asylum, universities are reconsidering recruitment from countries perceived as ‘riskier’

Other universities have decided to place stricter restrictions on applications from Afghanistan. Nottingham Trent University (NTU), for example, has imposed a deadline by which applicants must meet all the conditions of their offer.

A statement on their website stated: “In previous years, students resident in Afghanistan have experienced extensive wait times from the UK Visas and Immigration services. This often means students are unable to arrive in time for the start of their course at NTU and must defer to the next intake.”

As the government attempts to reduce the number of students entering the UK on a study visa and then claiming asylum, universities are reconsidering recruitment from countries perceived as ‘riskier’.

Over 8,000 Afghans claimed asylum in the UK between June 2024 and June 2025, and of these, 1,000 already held a visa of some form.

However, some argue that decisions to block applications contribute to an increase in anti-migrant sentiment.

Afghan student applications have reduced by over 40% since the Taliban regained control in August 2021

Jenna Mittelmeier, Senior Lecturer in International Education at the University of Manchester, told Times Higher Education: “Seeking asylum after entering the country on a student visa is a legal and human right, despite the government’s attempts to make this route more hostile.

“By altering recruitment practices despite their humanitarian toll, universities contribute to further legitimising anti-migrant discourses and policies.”

According to data from the UK Council for International Student Affairs, Afghan student applications have reduced by over 40% since the Taliban regained control in August 2021.

Decisions taken by universities to reduce their access to higher education have therefore raised concerns over the UK’s commitment to support vulnerable students.

Warwick have taken no steps to block Afghan students from applying to the University. Entry requirements and visa information for students from Afghanistan are listed on the University’s website, which also states that “the University of Warwick is pleased to welcome students from the Middle East and North Africa every year”.