Many German students choose to study in the UK. From 2012 to 2014, Great Britain ranked third among popular study abroad destinations (behind France [2] and Spain [1]).
After Brexit, conditions for studying abroad could change, and as in most areas, exact effects can not yet be predicted. Continuing the Erasmus programme, for example,, is subject to negotiations.
Scenario 1: Transition Period
If the United Kingdom and the EU agree on a transition period, there will be time until the end of 2020 to answer questions concerning future viability of university and school exchange programmes. Until then, Great Britain would be treated like a EU member state, meaning EU students’ rights of movement would not be and tuition fees would not apply.
Scenario 2: ‘Hard’ Brexit
If an agreement cannot be reached in due time, Great Britain will be treated as a third (non-EU) country as of 31 October, 2019. However, Erasmus programmes do apply for some non-EU states, and thus the United Kingdom could still take part in the programmes as long as that participation is financed through national funds.
Students considering studying in the United Kingdom after a ‘hard’ Brexit should take into account that:
Freedom of movement would no longer be granted. Residence permits would be required and tuition fees would increase unless Great Britain grants privileges to EU citizens. If not, regular foreign student fees (around EUR 33.8 thousand) could apply. The maximum duration for tuition funding through BAföG would be one year. Currently, laws are being created that maintain BAföG eligibility for British students and trainees in Germany.
The many strategic school partnerships under Erasmus could also be affected, depending on Great Britain continuing bilateral relations with the EU.
Recognition of professional qualifications would not be covered by current German guidelines and labour-intensive review processes may ensue. This would apply for science, research and higher education staff.
Recognition of educational degrees are based on common international regulation and will remain in place. Changes should not be expected.
