In recent developments, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reconsidered his plan to impose stricter restrictions on graduate visas following substantial opposition from cabinet ministers and significant stakeholders in the higher education sector. Among the measures under consideration was a clampdown on recruitment agents marketing British degree courses overseas, with penalties for those failing to deliver on the quality of students promised, according to the Financial Times.
Government’s Initial Plan Faces Strong Opposition
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Indian students and alumni were particularly vocal in urging Sunak to maintain the current graduate visa system. They rejected claims that these visas amounted to little more than “Deliveroo visas,” facilitating access to low-paid jobs in the gig economy. The National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) underscored the critical importance of the graduate visa route to the UK’s appeal as a study destination.
Sanam Arora, chair of NISAU, highlighted the potential adverse effects of any negative changes to the graduate visa route. India, a major source of international students to the UK, accounts for over 40% of all graduate visas. Arora stressed that the term “Deliveroo visas” diminishes the hard work and substantial financial investment of international students who come to the UK with hopes of a better future.
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Financial Implications For International Students
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Many international students finance their education through costly loans. It is only fair that they seek to gain meaningful work experience post-graduation as a return on their investment. One controversial option under consideration was to restrict graduate visas to the 24 research-intensive Russell Group universities. This would potentially exclude many deserving students from other institutions.
Over 20 universities in north England, have written to Sunak urging him to maintain the current graduate visa system. The letter, signed by leaders from top universities, warns of the detrimental impact on universities and the regional economy. The international student cohort contributed £7.2 billion to the north of England’s economy in 2020-21. Reductions in applications, as high as 80% in some areas, could have catastrophic financial repercussions.
Sunak’s decision to backtrack on the proposed restrictions demonstrates a recognition of the vital role international students play. The ongoing debate highlights the need for a balanced approach that supports both immigration control and economic growth through educational excellence.
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