Key Takeaways:
- The UK Graduate Visa allows international students to work in the UK for two years post-graduation.
- The Migration Advisory Committee recommends retaining this visa, benefiting many Indian students planning UK education.
- 45,600 out of 1.14 lakh Graduate Visas issued in 2023 went to Indian students, constituting 40% of holders.
The UK Graduate Visa: Essential Updates for Indian Students Aspiring to Study Abroad
For numerous Indian students looking to study abroad, the UK remains a favored destination. Recent developments regarding the UK’s Graduate Visa, also known as the post-study work visa or PSW, have brought some cheerful news for those planning to study in the UK. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), which reviews immigration policies, has recommended continuing the graduate route visa in its current form. This recommendation offers significant benefits for international students, particularly those from India.
What is the Graduate Route Visa?
Introduced in July 2021, the Graduate Visa allows international students to stay and work in the UK for two years after graduating from a British university. This applies to both prestigious Russell Group universities, such as Oxford, Cambridge, and LSE, and non-Russell Group universities, like Sussex, SOAS, and the University of West London. The visa has proven to be a popular choice among international students, facilitating a smoother transition from academic life to professional employment in the UK.
Key Findings from the MAC Report
Will the Graduate Visa Be Discontinued?
One of the primary concerns for many students and educational agents was whether the Graduate Visa would be discontinued. The MAC report, submitted on May 14, 2023, has clarified that the visa will continue in its current form. This is a significant relief, especially for thousands of Indian students planning to study in the UK.
Did the Graduate Route Visa Meet Its Objectives?
The UK had set a target to host six lakh international students by 2030, a goal that has already been achieved. Although it’s hard to measure the exact contribution of the Graduate Visa to this achievement, the MAC report states that the Graduate Visa has played a considerable role in attracting international students.
“Based on our analysis, the graduate route is broadly achieving its objectives and supporting the International Education Strategy. We recommend retaining the graduate route in its current form,” the report reads.
Is There Any Abuse of the Graduate Route?
The MAC report found no widespread abuse of the Graduate Visa. The limited conditions imposed by this route keep the risks low. However, there are concerns about poor practices by some agents who may be mis-selling UK higher education, leading to potential exploitation.
How Many Indian Students Use the Graduate Visa?
In 2023, a total of 1.14 lakh Graduate Route visas were issued, along with an additional 30,000 visas given to dependents. Of these, Indian students accounted for a significant portion, with 45,600 Graduate Visa holders being from India. This indicates that Indian students constitute 40% of all Graduate Route visa holders.
Does the Graduate Visa Affect the Quality of the UK University System?
The MAC report concluded that the Graduate Visa does not undermine the quality of the UK university system. Instead, it enables universities to offer a wider range of courses and compensates for financial losses incurred on domestic students and research activities. Moreover, the visa has diversified the range of universities benefiting from the financial contributions of international students.
What Work Do Graduate Visa Holders Do?
Initially, Graduate Visa holders often find lower-paid work, particularly in health and care occupations. However, their employment outcomes improve over time. Observations show that within a year, their earnings align closely with those of local graduates, especially 15 months after completing their studies.
Transition to Skilled Worker Visas
Interestingly, nearly 50% of the first group of Graduate Visa holders transitioned to Skilled Worker visas, securing skilled work positions. The earnings and occupations of these individuals are comparable to those of local graduates, further emphasizing the positive impact of the Graduate Route.
Why the Graduate Visa Matters for Indian Students?
For Indian students, the Graduate Visa provides an excellent opportunity to gain international work experience after completing their studies. It also offers a pathway to potentially secure a Skilled Worker visa, opening doors to long-term career opportunities in the UK. Given that a significant percentage of Graduate Visa holders move into skilled work, this route amplifies the benefits of studying in the UK.
How to Apply for the Graduate Visa?
To apply for a Graduate Visa, students need to have completed an eligible course from a recognized UK university. The application process involves several steps, including:
- Completing Your Course: Ensure you have successfully completed a degree or other eligible course at a sponsoring UK university.
- Receiving Confirmation: Get confirmation from your university that your course completion details have been sent to the Home Office.
- Applying Online: Submit an online application along with supporting documents, including a valid passport and your Biometric Residence Permit (if applicable).
- Biometric Information: Provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) if required.
- Visa Fee and Health Surcharge: Pay the visa fee and the immigration health surcharge.
For comprehensive information on the application process and required documents, visit the official UK government website.
Final Thoughts
The continuation of the Graduate Visa in its current form is a positive development for Indian students and others planning to study in the UK. With its broad objectives being met and the absence of widespread abuse, the Graduate Visa remains a valuable pathway for international students to gain work experience and potentially secure long-term employment in the UK. This policy not only supports the UK’s International Education Strategy but also provides significant benefits for global learners.
By maintaining the Graduate Route Visa, the UK reaffirms its commitment to welcoming international students and offering them opportunities to thrive academically and professionally. Indian students, in particular, stand to gain immensely from this route, making their time in the UK both enriching and rewarding.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
- Graduate Visa (Graduate Route Visa): A visa introduced in July 2021 that allows international students to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after graduating from a UK university. It facilitates the transition from academic life to professional employment.
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Migration Advisory Committee (MAC): An independent public body in the UK that provides advice to the government on migration issues, including the assessment and recommendations on immigration policies like the Graduate Visa.
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Skilled Worker Visa: A type of UK visa that allows individuals to work in a skilled job in the UK for an approved employer. It is often a progression route for those on the Graduate Visa seeking longer-term employment.
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Russell Group Universities: A group of 24 prestigious public research universities in the UK, including institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and the London School of Economics (LSE). These universities are known for their high academic standards and research output.
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Immigration Health Surcharge: A fee that international migrants, including students applying for visas, must pay as part of their visa application. It entitles them to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK.
These terms help provide clarity on specific aspects of the UK’s immigration policies related to international students, particularly those from India.
This Article In A Nutshell:
For Indian students eyeing UK studies, the Graduate Visa opens post-grad work doors. Latest reports promise visa continuity, making UK study dreams sweeter. Discover benefits, application steps, and success stories of Indian students securing skilled work. Explore the Graduate Route Visa for a fulfilling academic and professional journey in the UK.
— By VisaVerge.com
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