UK Visa Clearance Data: November 2025

Key Highlights

• UK-sponsored study visa clearances in November ‘25 for main applicants decreased -13.74%, as compared to Nov ‘24.
• October ‘25 and November ‘25 main applicant issuances decline may impact January 2026 intake and booking occupancy. 
• Overall, student visas for main applicants increased by +6.52% in Jan-Nov 2025 vs last year.
• Dependent visa clearances reduced by -15.38% YoY in Nov ‘25, with a decrease of -1.96% year-to-date (YTD), i.e., Jan-Nov ‘25, compared to YTD Nov ‘24.

As 2025 draws to a close, the UK Home Office has published its latest visa clearance data for November. Against the backdrop of evolving policies and a dynamic education landscape, this latest analysis by amber reveals the updated trends in UK-sponsored study visa clearances.

UK Sponsored Study Visa Clearances: November ‘25

UK study sponsored visas for main applicants in November 2025 showed a downward trend of 13.74% for main applicants as compared to November ‘24, with a dip from 13,100 to 11,300. This recorded the sharpest dip of the year so far.

This year has recorded strong growth in February (+75.68%), March (+64.58%), April (+54.17%), and September (+10.42%), following a -1.48% dip in August.

With both October and November showing downward movement, the late-cycle slowdown may influence January intake momentum and, subsequently, January booking occupancy levels, making these months critical watchpoints for PBSA operators.

UK Sponsored Study Visa Clearance: YTD Nov ‘25

Overall, in the UK, the cumulative applicants rose by +6.52% in 2025, up from 372,700 applicants in 2024 to 397,000 in 2025.

UK Dependent Visa Clearance: YTD Nov ‘25

Dependent visa clearances witnessed a reduction of -15.38% in November 2025, with 1,100 clearances this year, as compared to 1,300 in November 2024.

Year-on-year, there has been a decrease of -1.96% with 20,000 dependent visas YTD November 2025, as compared to 20,400 YTD November ‘24.

Wrapping It Up

Overall, the 2025 cycle continues to show strong YoY growth, supported by strong surges in early-year volumes. Despite softer numbers in October and November, UK study visa demand remains stable, with students securing places earlier in the cycle. However, the late-cycle dip may temper January intake momentum and booking occupancy, making these months important indicators for operators to monitor.

Amber will continue tracking these developments through upcoming cycles to provide institutions and PBSA stakeholders with timely, data-driven insights.

For detailed city-level insights and customised recommendations, contact supply-operations@amberstudent.com or list your property with amber for maximum visibility.