It's difficult to get information about the state of the UK's higher education intake, however this article from October 31st 2025 sounds positive.

It seems African, US and Indian student intake is at higher levels which is offsetting the recent drop from China.

Part of the improvement seems to have come from new approaches that make it easier/faster to scrutinise students that are applying.

thepienews.com - Cas issuances up across UK universities data shows

" International student recruitment is regaining momentum after a slower 2024 cycle"

"While issuances for the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), a unique reference number issued to international students after accepting an offer, are up 8% year-on-year, acceptances and deposits have risen by over 18%. The gap between applications and final approvals indicates that UK universities are processing more students while applying greater scrutiny to decisions."

"As per data highlighted by Enroly, West Africa recorded the highest year-on-year rise in CAS issuances (70.03%), followed by North America (11.82%), East Africa (7.74%), and South Asia (2.54%).
In contrast, regions such as the Middle East (-30.45%), Southeast Asia (-11.2%), and East Asia (-7.61%) continue to record significant year-on-year declines in CAS issuances."

TRS