UK universities have observed a significant decline in the number of international students applying to study in the country, amidst concerns over potential restrictions on student visas. There are fears that changes to the graduate visa entitlement, which permits international graduates to work in the UK for up to three years, could adversely impact the inflow of talent crucial for Britain’s creative sectors.
Industry leaders, including representatives from Creative UK, have cautioned against the removal or reduction of the graduate visa scheme, arguing that such measures would discourage international students from choosing the UK for their studies. The creative industries alone contribute £108 billion annually to the UK economy.
Earlier restrictions on international students, coupled with uncertainty surrounding the future of the graduate visa, have already led to a decrease in overseas applications to UK universities. A survey conducted by the British Universities’ International Liaison Association revealed that nine out of 10 universities experienced a decline in international applications for the upcoming academic year, with a notable 27% decrease in total applications for taught postgraduate courses compared to the previous year.
In a joint letter addressed to the government, Creative UK and Universities UK emphasized the pivotal role of international graduates in sustaining the growth of the creative industries, which surpass the aerospace, life sciences, and automotive sectors combined. They urged authorities to preserve the graduate visa pathway as one of the few avenues for talented graduates to contribute to the UK’s creative landscape.
Sally Mapstone, Vice-Chancellor of St Andrews University and President of Universities UK, stressed the significance of international students to UK culture and economy, warning against unnecessary restrictions that could harm institutions and the nation as a whole.
Concerns have been raised by the British Academy regarding the potential negative impact of removing the graduate visa, with implications for the academic and research environment. These fears have escalated since March when the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) was tasked with reviewing the graduate route amid concerns about its misuse.
Despite calls for the abolition of the graduate visa, the government has emphasized its commitment to striking a balance between controlling net migration and attracting talented students to UK universities.