Last week, the findings of a survey of current and recent students of the London School of Economics (LSE) revealed that following the removal of the Tier 1 Post Study Work (PSW) visa route, international students were being distracted by the need to obtain work experience or apply for jobs during their course.
Following this, Sir David Eastwood, the University of Birmingham vice-chancellor, stated that post study work visas were an issue that needed to be addressed by the government and stated that we needed to “move towards a more permissive position there”.
Indian Students Felt “Most Aggrieved”
LSE’s study revealed that that 77% of the 1,336 respondents agreed that learners were less likely to come to the UK from overseas as a result of immigration reforms. 68% of Indian students at LSE strongly agreed with this statement compared to 55% of Chinese students. Just under half (49%) of students expressed that they planned to work in the UK upon completion of their studies.
Simeon Underwood, the LSE’s academic registrar and director of academic services, told Times Higher Education that visa restrictions were “tantamount to closing off opportunities for post-study work altogether” for many students.
Universities Attempt to Boost Student Recruitment from India
It seems that due to concerns that the UK government’s harsh immigration policy may be deterring international students from studying in the UK, senior representatives from the UK higher education sector will travel to India next week to encourage students to pursue university education in the UK.
Lord Bilimoria and Universities Minister Greg Clark are among the delegates who hope to recruit students from India and also support research, teaching and business collaborations.
Professor Sir David said:
“The University of Birmingham is extremely proud of its close and longstanding engagement with India. For more than a century, Indian students have enriched our campus community while our office in Delhi enhances research and teaching collaboration. The appointment of Lord Bilimoria as our Chancellor further underlines this commitment.”
Successful UK Tier 4 Student Visa Applications & Appeals
Our team of experienced and professionally qualified immigration solicitors and barristers will be able to guide you through the process of making a student visa application step by step and limit the possibility of failure by complying with the strict letter of law.
We also undertake a great deal of appeal work before the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal and have a successful track record of successful results for our clients. We have the experience and the knowledge required to take your case forward successfully. If you have had a student visa refused, contact us to discuss your case so that we can provide you with a case assessment.