Reports released by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) in 2018 indicated a significant influx of Indian students heading to the UK, totaling over 750,000. The demand for both degree programmes and short-term courses in the UK has been steadily rising. Visa issuances reflect this trend, with 404,400 visas issued in 2019 and a substantial increase to 623,700 in 2022. Specifically for India, the UK granted a total of 142,848 student visas in 2023, marking a 54% increase from June 2022.
Indian students constitute one-third of the total sponsored study grants, as per the official report from the Home Office, Government of the UK. However, the surge in international students prompted the UK to introduce measures to regulate student immigration.
The rules that are effective in January 2024 include a ban on dependents of international students, except those pursuing postgraduate research degrees. Additionally, international students will no longer have the option to switch from student visas to work routes unless they complete their degree programmes.
Regarding the expansion of international student presence in India, there has been an annual 10% growth in their numbers. To meet specific requirements, students are increasingly opting for one-year master’s programmes, seen as a pathway to bring their dependents into the country.
Reports by MAC revealed a notable increase in the total number of dependents accompanying students to the UK. So far, 176,000 students have entered the UK via the graduate route, accompanied by 37,000 dependents. Among these, 42% were Indian nationals.
However, concerns about potential exploitation of the system and vulnerabilities due to loopholes have prompted experts to call for a review of the graduate route. The government aims to ensure the entry of genuine students while maintaining a welcoming and open environment for international students.
Experts hold differing opinions, with some anticipating changes in the graduate visa system while others believe there won’t be a decline in the number of Indian students choosing the UK for studies. Some experts suggest excluding international students from the net migration figures, as it can have a potential negative impact. Notably, countries like the United States and Australia do not include international students in their net migration figures.
