STUDENTS from European countries are choosing to study in Scotland in record numbers rather than pay thousands of pounds in top-up fees south of the border.

The number of EU students from outside the UK applying to Scottish universities has increased by 27.3% on last year, from 4,788 to 6,094. In contrast, EU applicants to English universities increased by just 8%.

EU nationals, along with Scots, do not pay tuition fees at Scottish universities. But those studying in England must pay up to £3,000 in tuition fees each year.

The Scottish executive, which picks up the £1,700 yearly bill of fees for EU students, will be forced to ringfence £2m extra this year if all applicants enrol.

Educationalists and politicians say EU students see Scotland as a “cheap option” and warn a continued rise could have serious consequences for Scottish students.

Murdo Fraser, the deputy leader of the Conservatives, claimed rising applications from Europe could see talented Scots ousted from Scottish universities.

This is a real, major and growing problem for the Scottish executive. We could see Scottish students displaced from Scottish institutions because of a high demand from EU students who want to avoid top-up fees in England.” said Fraser.

He urged the Scottish executive to reconsider introducing top-up fees for EU nationals.

Fraser said: “Until now the Scottish executive has said that for legal reasons it can’t charge top-up fees to EU students. I think they have to re-consider this as a possibility.”

A spokesperson for the executive commented: “While there appears to have been a large percentage rise in the number of non-UK EU students applying to Scottish institutions, the actual number of students is still relatively small.

“We do not believe that this rise will have an adverse affect on student finance or places for Scottish students. We will, however, monitor the situation.”

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