The UK Government has today published its International Education Strategy 2026, which for the first time formally recognises youth and student travel as an integral part of the UK’s international education offer
The Strategy acknowledges the role of educational travel and short courses within the UK’s wider education ecosystem and cites data from the British Educational Travel Association (BETA) showing that the UK welcomed 12.5 million youth and student travellers in 2023 – representing 33% of all international arrivals.
The Strategy also sets out a renewed commitment to global mobility, including participation in Erasmus+ from 2027, continued support for the Turing Scheme, and the strengthening of people-to-people links that contribute to the UK’s diplomatic, economic and soft-power objectives.
BETA welcomes the publication of the Strategy and the recognition of youth and student travel within the Government’s export ambitions. This aligns with BETA’s long-standing advocacy for improved visibility and recognition of the sector’s contribution to the UK’s international competitiveness, education diplomacy and inbound export performance.
BETA will continue to work with Government and industry partners to support delivery of the Strategy and further strengthen the UK’s position as a leading destination for youth mobility, educational travel and exchange.
Author: Helen Leigh
