UK Top Universities Lower Grade Thresholds | Aberdeen News

Aberdeen News Today | 2 Min | The Daily News Now! · Aug 9, 2026 · 1m

UK top universities are bucking tradition by admitting students with lower grades than usual, driven by a sharp drop in international enrolment and the financial strain it’s causing. With visa changes deterring overseas students — especially from Nigeria, India, and China — elite Russell Group schools are turning to local applicants to fill coffers, even placing them in courses meant for higher achievers. While some critics worry standards are slipping, university leaders insist admissions teams are using discretion to find potential, not lowering bar. The sector is under immense pressure…