The government has published its response to the technical consultation on the design and delivery of the International Student Levy.

We received 91 responses from respondents associated with higher education providers, companies or organisations, including representative bodies, student unions and individuals. Respondents sought clarification on the scope of the levy, its calculation and administration, and its application to different types of providers and students.

The government’s response confirms and clarifies the operational design of the levy, in response to the key queries raised by respondents. The government is also announcing that the Office for Students (OfS) will run 2 trial delivery calculations based on student data from academic years 2026 to 2027 and 2027 to 2028, which will be shared with providers to support their financial planning and enable the OfS to test its processes and draft guidance.

The response sets out a clear timetable for next steps, and the government will continue to work with the OfS and the sector ahead of the levy’s introduction.

Alongside the consultation response, the government has published draft primary legislation for the levy. Subject to parliamentary approval, the levy will come into effect from 1 August 2028.

We thank all those who responded to the consultation and for sharing their views. The feedback received is continuing to help shape the design and delivery of the policy.