Set to conclude by May 14, 2024, the review has stirred unease among Indian students, both currently in the UK and those contemplating study there later this year
A swift review of the UK government’s graduate route, permitting foreign students to remain in the UK for up to two years post-graduation (or three years for PhD students), is currently underway by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC). Set to conclude by May 14, 2024, the review has stirred unease among Indian students, both currently in the UK and those contemplating study there later this year.
Launched in July 2021 as part of the UK government’s international education strategy to attract global talent, the graduate route has significantly contributed to the UK economy, with over 600,000 international students and €60 billion added between 2019-20 and 2023-24, according to Universities UK.
However, the looming review has sparked apprehension, particularly among Indian students. Sanam Arora, Chairperson of the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (Nisau), expressed concern over the potential impact on UK-India relations if the graduate route is altered or withdrawn. Reports indicate a significant drop in Indian student intake for the January 2024 semester, raising alarms within the UK higher education sector.
Speculation among UK higher education experts suggests the possible discontinuation of the graduate route following the MAC’s review. This uncertainty has prompted Indian students to explore alternatives, potentially leading to a decline in UK-bound students in the coming years.
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The outcome of the MAC’s review holds implications not only for Indian students but also for the broader landscape of UK higher education and its global competitiveness
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Maintaining an attractive offer for international students, particularly from India, remains crucial for sustaining the UK’s position as a leading destination for higher education
For Indian students, a post-study work visa holds paramount importance, as highlighted by research from Nisau. The ability to gain practical work experience post-education influences their choice of study destination significantly. Advocating for the retention of the graduate route, Arora emphasized the importance of aligning labor demands with the supply of international graduates to maintain the UK’s appeal to Indian students.
Nisau’s recommendations to remove international students from net migration targets aim to provide a more accurate representation of immigration numbers and alleviate undue blame on international students. Additionally, strategic partnerships with organizations like Leap and University Living aim to address Indian students’ concerns regarding employability and housing in the UK.
The outcome of the MAC’s review holds implications not only for Indian students but also for the broader landscape of UK higher education and its global competitiveness. Maintaining an attractive offer for international students, particularly from India, remains crucial for sustaining the UK’s position as a leading destination for higher education.
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