European Union students (EU) studying or starting a course this year will receive free tuition in Scotland for the duration of their studies despite the UK’s Brexit vote, the Scottish Government has confirmed.
EU regulations require member states to offer the same benefits to EU citizens as their own citizens, compelling the Scottish Government to provide fee-free education to EU students alongside Scottish students.
However, the Scottish Government may not be under the same constraints when the UK leaves the EU.
Scottish Education Secretary John Swinney has issued a joint statement with Universities Scotland to reassure existing EU students they will continue to benefit from free tuition.
It states: “We welcome the contribution EU students make to our society, culture and economy.
“EU students add to the diversity of our communities, enrich the learning experience and support local businesses and jobs.
“We want to reassure EU students that there has been no change in current funding arrangements and that eligible EU students already studying in Scotland or commencing their studies in the coming months will continue to benefit from free tuition and, for those who meet the residency requirement, associated living cost support.”
The Scottish Government and universities have also stressed they want Scottish students to continue to have the ability to study abroad.
The statement continues: “The UK Government has indicated that UK students studying in the EU, and those looking to start in the next academic year, will continue to be subject to current arrangements.
“We believe that the outcome of the EU referendum makes it even more important that the UK Government supports the reintroduction of a post-study work visa in Scotland to enable our universities to continue to attract and retain talent from across the world.”
Mr Swinney said: “Today’s statement sends a clear message that EU students are welcome in Scotland and their contribution is valued.
“The UK Government must also clarify as soon as possible the immigration status of EU nationals who will be living, working and studying in Scotland when the UK formally leaves the EU.”
Professor Sir Pete Downes, convener of Universities Scotland and principal of the University of Dundee, said: “This statement provides much-needed reassurance to our highly-valued community of EU students and those due to start study with us in the next few months.
“We will keep working to secure clarification and guidance for those who are considering Scotland as destination for study for entry from 2017/18.”
