Beyond the balance sheet: Tracing the evolution of UK universities’ internationalisation over 40 years

Since the 1980s, the landscape of higher education in the UK has undergone significant transformation, with the internationalisation of universities emerging as a central theme. This evolution, particularly in the context of international student recruitment, is often viewed through the lens of financial necessity and strategic financial planning. Yet, this perspective is part of a multifaceted narrative that encompasses academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and global engagement.