The number of Indian students pursuing higher education in the UK has plummeted by 23% in the past year, according to recent Home Office data. Despite Indians still topping the list for student visa grants, the decline is a cause for concern. The drop coincides with stricter migration rules, including limits on dependent family members.
In the past year, 110,006 sponsored UK study visas were granted to Indian nationals, a decrease of 32,687 compared to the previous year. The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK attributes the decline to uncertainty surrounding the Graduate Route visa review.
The impact extends beyond Indian students, with Nigerian nationals experiencing a 46% decrease. Tighter immigration policies have also affected work visas, with an 81% drop in Health and Care Worker visas granted between April and June 2024.
The UK government aims to reduce its reliance on foreign workers, particularly in IT and engineering sectors. However, university officials and business leaders warn that ongoing immigration curbs may deter international students and skilled workers, ultimately affecting the UK’s attractiveness as a destination.
To address the decline, Sanam Arora, NISAU UK chair, emphasizes the need to reassure Indian students that the UK remains a welcoming destination. The drop in international students may exacerbate financial pressures on UK universities, which rely on higher fees paid by foreign students.
