Universities in the United Kingdom are making efforts to attract more Chinese students by working with overseas study consultants. On Feb 2, Durham University and the international education company Study Group announced a strategic tie-up in Beijing.

The tie-up will see the setting up of an international study center at Durham University for global student admissions and preparatory courses.

Durham University, established in 1832 — the third-oldest university in England — is currently ranked between 4th and 6th in the recent national league tables of British universities.

Meanwhile, the number of Chinese students applying to study in the UK in 2016 grew by 9 percent year on year, according to data released by the British Council.

Separately, the UK government is making changes to the Tier 4 student visa to ensure that the UK remains an attractive destination for international students.