UK study visa applications witnesses a sharp rise despite graduate route cuts
Synopsis Despite reduced post-study work benefits, UK study visa applications surged by 29% in the first five months of 2025, indicating continued appeal. While dependent visa restrictions impacted overall numbers, a perceived stability compared to other destinations like the US and Australia may contribute to the UK's attractiveness for international students. However, financial pressures on universities remain a concern. Demand for UK study visas has increased significantly this year, according to new data from the Home Office, even as the government rolls back post-study work benefits. In the first five months of 2025, 76,400 students applied for UK study visas, marking a 29% rise compared to the same period in 2024.
ADVERTISEMENT As per a report by Times Higher Education, in May alone, 18,500 study visa applications were submitted—19% higher than in May last year. This is the first set of figures released since the UK government announced a cut to the Graduate Route, reducing the post-study work period from two years to 18 months. The data suggests that, so far, the change has not discouraged prospective international students.
Ruth Arnold, director of external affairs at Study Group, told THE, 'The surge in applications suggests that fears of the impact of the immigration White Paper may have been avoided, mainly thanks to the preserved post-study work offer.' She also pointed to stricter visa rules in Australia, Canada, and the United States, saying, 'More students are turning to the UK as a safer, more stable option.' UK may ease family visa income rule after 'Tax on Love' criticism
However, she noted that many students are applying to multiple destinations. 'There is no time for complacency,' Arnold added.
(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) The UK government introduced restrictions on dependent visas in January 2024. This appears to have affected application numbers from family members. In May 2025, 1,100 dependents applied for UK visas, compared to 1,400 in May 2024 and 7,800 in May 2023. So far this year, 6,300 dependent applications have been recorded, down from 46,700 during the same period last year.In the 12 months to May 2025, total study visa applications from main applicants fell by 9%. RSM UK attributed this decline to the dependent visa restrictions. Louise Tweedie, partner and higher education specialist at RSM UK, told THE, 'Universities also continue to face financial pressures and structural changes, with several universities announcing cuts to programmes and departments in May, due to budget constraints.'
ADVERTISEMENT Rachel Hewitt, chief executive of the MillionPlus group, commented that it's too early to judge the full impact of recent policy changes. However, she said, 'An unsettled picture in the US, coupled with a less combative attitude towards international students in Westminster could well have played a part.'
Data from UniQuest, which works with UK universities on international enrolment, shows a 10% year-on-year increase in firm acceptances from international applicants. Still, it is unclear whether this rise is due to declining interest in the US. Jennifer Parsons, chief market and partnerships officer at UniQuest, said, 'Those students who have carefully considered what is best for their future are much more likely to convert than those who have made a rash decision. Institutions are also taking a robust and responsible approach to what's happening in the markets right now.'
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