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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly proposing a major shift in post-Brexit education policy that could see EU students offered significantly reduced university tuition fees as part of ongoing “reset” negotiations with Brussels.

According to discussions linked to the broader EU–UK rapprochement talks, the proposal would mark one of the most substantial concessions since Brexit, potentially allowing European undergraduates to study in the UK for up to £28,000 less than current international rates.

Supporters of the plan argue it could help rebuild academic ties between the UK and EU countries, making British universities more competitive and attractive to top European talent after years of declining EU enrolments.

However, critics warn that the move could come at a significant financial cost to the UK higher education sector, with estimates suggesting universities could lose as much as £500 million in annual revenue if the discounted fee structure is introduced.

While negotiations are still ongoing and no final agreement has been reached, the proposal is already sparking debate over the long-term balance between restoring EU relations and protecting the financial stability of British universities in the post-Brexit era.