UK’s biggest student housing provider hit by fall in international enrolement

The Guardian World

by Julia Kollewe

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The UK’s largest student housing provider, Unite Group, has faced significant challenges due to a decline in international student enrollment, leading to reduced profits and strategic changes. The company has cut rents at several universities and sold one of its London properties for £186 million to a joint venture, while also halting new construction projects after the completion of its first build-to-rent project in Stratford. The drop in demand stems from fewer international students choosing to study in the UK, which has been exacerbated by factors such as Brexit and increased competition from other global education hubs. Unite Group’s shares fell nearly 10% to their lowest level since early 2015, reflecting investor concerns about the company’s future prospects. The firm now expects weaker demand to persist, prompting it to focus on optimizing its existing properties rather than expanding its housing stock. This shift in strategy highlights the broader challenges facing the UK’s education sector, particularly its reliance on international students for revenue and growth. With Unite Group suspending new developments, the market may see reduced supply, which could further strain student accommodation availability in coming years. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining a competitive and welcoming environment for international students, not just for educational institutions but also for the UK’s economic and cultural reputation on the global stage. As other countries invest heavily in attracting talent, the UK must adapt to ensure its position as a leading study destination remains secure.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/24/2026