Recent surveys have highlighted a growing reluctance among Indian students to apply to universities in the UK.
While the US, Canada, and the UK have traditionally been popular destinations for Indian students seeking higher education abroad, new data reveals a decline in interest in UK universities. A major factor contributing to this trend is the ongoing economic crisis in the UK, which has placed strain on its educational institutions, many of which are operating with constrained budgets. A recent report by the Office for Students (OfS) indicates that the number of Indian students applying to UK universities has decreased by approximately 20.4%.
The primary reasons behind this decline include limited job opportunities for Indian students, safety concerns exacerbated by recent immigration-related unrest in certain cities, and stricter visa policies. A major issue is the difficulty international students face in transitioning from student visas to post-study work visas. This situation has caused many students to reconsider the UK as a viable option, especially given that part-time work is essential for many to support their education and living expenses. Without these opportunities, the UK becomes a less attractive destination. Such changes could significantly impact the UK's universities, according to recent surveys.
Additionally, the survey reveals a 11.8% reduction in the number of sponsorships granted to students from countries like India and Nigeria. The tightening of visa regulations, including restrictions on dependent visas, has also played a role in this shift. The OfS, a non-departmental public body of the UK government, has suggested that easing dependent visa rules could help address the issue.
In response to these findings, Sanam Arora, National Chairman of the Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU), stated that the decline in international student enrollment can be attributed to factors such as the restrictive ban on dependents, confusion surrounding post-study work visas, higher salary requirements for skilled workers, and a lack of clear career opportunities for graduates.
