More than 100 European students withdraw from Aberystwyth because of Brexit

According to a report, more than 100 prospective European students have withdrawn their applications to study at Aberystwyth University due to Britain’s decision to leave the European Union.

The vice-chancellor of the university, John Grattan, said that around 50 students withdrew the day after the results of last month’s referendum were announced.

Speaking to students this week at graduation ceremonies, the vice-chancellor said: “I won’t hide it from you that Brexit poses a challenge to the university.

“Over 100 European students have withdrawn their applications to us at this point, 50 by the end of Friday on Brexit day.

“That’s a stunning impact of our finances.  There are 120,000 European students at British universities”

For a large number of universities across the country, EU and international students account for a large proportion of their income, with many paying between £10,000 and £15,000 a year in tuition fees.

A spokesman for Aberystwyth University has told the BBC: “Unfortunately, news reports abroad have led to articles disseminating the message that EU citizens are no longer welcome in the UK.

“Because of this all UK universities have said that prospective students that had accepted firm offers are now withdrawing them, and we are no exception.”

Bangor University, Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University and The University of South Wales could not confirm the number of withdrawing applicants, but Swansea University said that none of their prospective students have pulled out from any courses.

The Welsh Government Education Secretary, Kirstie Williams said: “I want to be clear that students and staff from across the European Union are still welcome in Wales.”