Significant Surge in Indian Students Applying for UK Study Visas

The UK’s Home Office has disclosed a substantial increase of 54% in the number of sponsored UK study visas granted to Indian students compared to the previous year. This marks a noteworthy shift in the preference for the UK as a favoured destination for Indian students seeking higher education. These findings have been meticulously analysed and presented by Gradding, a study abroad platform.

The UK study visa news highlights the statistics which reveal a significant surge, demonstrating that Indian students now hold nearly 1,42,848 UK study visas compared to 2022. Specifically, the UK has issued close to 500,000 sponsored UK study visas for Indian students. 

As a result, it is anticipated that the number of Indian students enrolling in UK universities will surpass an impressive 300,000 in the 2024 academic session. The data shows that a total of 1,42,848 sponsored UK study visas were granted to Indian students. This represents an astounding increase of 49,883 UK study visa for Indian students compared to the previous year, ending in June 2022. Particularly noteworthy is the Graduate Route, which allows students to extend their stay in the UK after completing their studies, with 42% of extensions granted to Indian students. 

This UK study visa news also highlights that 20% of students whose visas expired in 2022 opted to transition to the Graduate Route after completing their studies. This trend is expected to continue in 2024 and is poised for further growth in the next academic year. 

Addressing the UK study visa news, the Founder of Gradding, Mamta Shekhawat, underscores that students are increasingly attracted to the UK due to its affordability. She asserts that the country offers a cost-effective education as compared to countries like the USA and Australia. She also highlights the high employability of UK graduates, with 8 in 10 international students experiencing career progression, promotions, and increased earnings as a direct result of their education in the UK.

The landscape of international enrollments in UK universities has undergone a notable transformation in recent years. In 2022 and 2023, China and India have emerged as the top two sending markets, contributing to 41% of all international enrollments. One of the reasons for this shift can be attributed to recent tensions between India and Canada, which have steered many students toward the UK as their preferred destination for higher education. 

Scholarships have played a key role in making the dream of studying in the UK more accessible. Scholarships have seen a notable 10% increase in demand compared to 2022. The University of Essex in the UK is offering valuable scholarships worth 10,000 for Indian students enrolling in one-year master’s programs.

The UK government has also taken proactive steps to streamline the visa process for Indian students with the reintroduction of the Graduation Immigration Route. This allows Indian students to work in the UK up to two years post-graduation without requiring a tier-2 visa. Also, as mentioned by Alex Ellis, the British High Commissioner to India, UK study visa for Indian students will be provided within 15 business days, facilitating hassle-free travel between India and the UK.

The Graduation Immigration Route will enhance the employability of Indian students in the UK job market, attracting students from around the world. Whether you are a working professional or a recent graduate, obtaining a postgraduate degree in the country can significantly enhance your prospects of securing your dream job in your chosen field.

In the academic year 2022, the UK surpassed its 2030 target for international student enrollment by a decade, with over 600,000 international students. Among major countries, the UK and Canada have witnessed the most significant increase in international student enrollment in recent years. 

If you’re looking to pursue your higher education in the UK, then amber can help you find your ideal student accommodation. Also, stay up to date with student housing news with our amber newsroom.