According to the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), the UK’s graduate route is reportedly attracting low-wage migrants rather than the intended global talent. In its annual report released in December, the committee expressed doubts about whether the post-study visa, introduced in 2021 to allow international students to work and stay in the UK, is effectively drawing highly skilled workers to the country.
In response to concerns, the government has requested the MAC conduct a review of the visa programme to prevent potential abuse. Universities are concerned that the route might be discontinued. The committee opposed the creation of the graduate route in 2018 due to fears of attracting low-skilled workers or a specific category of students.
176,000 students have been accepted through the graduate route, accompanied by 37,000 dependents, according to the statistics. There has been notable growth in the number of Indian and Nigerian students, with a significant increase in those bringing dependents. However, data on the earnings of individuals on the graduate route and changes in the demographics of international students since the visa’s introduction are not readily available.
Surprisingly, the popularity of the visa exceeded government predictions. MAC reports that the number of international students in 2021–22 aligned closely with the government’s estimates for route applications. Despite concerns, UK universities have defended the route, asserting that it has contributed to the UK being the second-most popular study abroad destination.
Research indicates that international students will make a substantial economic contribution of around £42 billion to the British economy in 2021–22. Additionally, they have played a crucial role in supporting the financial sustainability of British universities facing funding shortfalls. In light of these contributions, the MAC concludes that the government must clarify the purpose of the graduate route.
