REJECT The UK’s International Education Strategy (IES) 2026 was developed in collaboration with the Home Office in their capacity as another Government department, rather than as a co-owner department. The IES is co-owned by DfE, the Department for Business and Trade, and the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. The DfE maintains a close working relationship with the Home Office, engaging regularly to ensure the UK’s offer to international higher education students remains globally competitive and aligned with wider government immigration and skills priorities. The Home Office is represented on the new Education Sector Action Group, co-chaired by ministers, which brings together Government, the education sector and industry to tackle concerns and identify opportunities for partnerships. The Home Office meets regularly with the DfE international students team to align on policy positions and progress. Both departments will continue to work closely together to ensure that delivery of the Immigration White Paper and the IES are mutually reinforcing. While the Government has been clear that we welcome genuine international students, higher education providers have a responsibility to manage their businesses appropriately in order to safeguard their financial health.